I am a proud mother of two sons and a daughter, and I have three grandsons who are the joys of my life. With so many young men in my family, I can’t ignore the fear I have for them growing up in a world still filled with hate, anger, and racism.
As a mother, I taught my children discipline, character, and self-respect. We finish what we start, take accountability, and rise after every fall. As the Word says, the race is not given to the swift or the strong, but to those who endure to the end.
But this is bigger than my family—it’s about all of us.
In 2017, I lost my beloved son, Quintas D. Harris, during a police encounter amid a psychotic episode. His loss is a painful reminder of the gaps in our systems and the urgent need for change. Too many young men, especially men of color, struggle with mental health challenges in silence. Research shows that mental illness often emerges between ages 18-25, yet support remains limited.
We must come together—not just to raise awareness, but to take action. By fostering understanding, breaking barriers, and advocating for real solutions, we can build a future where every young man has the support he needs to thrive.
Let’s break the stigma. Let’s create change. Together, we can make a difference.
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