From Damita, Editor
Hey Sunflower Tribe 🌻Welcome to May. The heat has came in early. The month has been going well Ujima as I continue to heal from a hard April. I do hope you are doing well. I know you are all busy with graduations, honoring our mothers 💔 and being a part of our Black Community. I wanted to share a few things with you before you get too busy.
Everyday Heroes Spotlight
Have you read the May issue of Ujima Magazine? If not, take some time to read the great stories inside. You will find stories from our Contributing Writers, Jacquie Johnson, Minister Sonya Hosey, Aubrie Edmond and Christina Gobert. You will also get some good tips and ideas from Mary Linnen and more. You can read the issue here: May Issue of Ujima
What Ujima Is Enjoying
We all need some laughter in our lives. I have been searching for more laughter in my life for sure. The other night I came across a comedian I had not heard of before. His name is Marcus D. Wiley. You may have already heard of him. What makes his comedy so funny is the reality of what he is talking about and his points always lead back to his faith in God. His father was a pastor and he grew up in the church. He is very relatable. He shares his life lessons that shows you how his faith works in his life, all while making you laugh.
Did you Miss This?
Let’s Talk About It.🖤
Every now and then, we’re reminded—often through the headlines—that even those who seem to “have it all” are silently hurting. High-profile suicides shake us because they reveal what often stays hidden: the quiet battles too many are fighting alone.
At Ujima, we believe in community care. We believe in checking in and having real, honest conversations. And in reminding each other that there is always help and always hope—even in the darkest moments.
Mental health care looks different for everyone. It could be therapy, medication, journaling, support groups, or simply having someone to talk to who listens without judgment.
But one thing is clear: no one should struggle in silence.
Just as a reference, this is information about suicide data in Austin. As of the most recent available data, the suicide rate in Austin, Texas, has experienced notable fluctuations in recent years. According to the City of Austin Open Data Portal, the suicide rate increased by 40% from 13 per 100,000 in 2020 to 18.2 per 100,000 in 2021 . From 2010 to 2021, there were a total of 1,542 deaths by suicide in Austin.City of Austin Open Data Portal
While specific data for 2022 and 2023 are not yet available, this upward trend underscores the importance of continued mental health support and suicide prevention efforts in the community.
If you or someone you love needs support, please know that help is here:
📞 National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988 (available 24/7, free, and confidential)
📞 Austin-area 24/7 Crisis Hotline: 512-472-4357
🌻 Before We Go…
Hey Sunflower Tribe,
As we honor achievements, celebrate motherhood, and uplift our community, remember this:
You are part of something powerful.
Your presence, your voice, your light — they help Ujima bloom.
So, as we move through May, keep showing up for yourself and your people.
Shine bright. Stand tall. And stay rooted in purpose.
– Damita & The Ujima Team
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