The Buckeye Region Anti-Violence Organization (BRAVO) provides comprehensive individual and community programs for survivor advocacy and support to LGBTQI survivors of hate and bias violence, discrimination, intimate partner violence, stalking, and/or sexual assault.
If you or someone you know has experienced violence, threats, or intimidation BRAVO can work with you to discuss ways to increase your safety.
OFFICIAL STATEMENT
Rest in Power, Colin Jennings.
March 4, 2024
In February, Colin Jennings, a queer Black man, was experiencing a serious mental health crisis that put him and others in danger. The Columbus Police were called to the scene. Within minutes of arriving, they shot Colin multiple times and killed him.
From this senseless tragedy, Colin’s mother, Yolanda, wants people to know that Colin deserved proper mental health care. He deserved empathy and dignity. He deserved de-escalation during a crisis. Colin should be alive today.
Racism is a public health crisis. Black Americans are twice as likely to be shot and killed by police officers. And the failure of the state’s systems to provide support for people in crisis must change.
Send a letter to Mayor Ginther and his office. Urge them to fully fund and support the Columbus Safety Collective initiative to create a non-police mental health response unit. Send your letter here.
To Colin Jennings’ family and loved ones, we extend our deepest sympathies. Rest in Power, Colin.
In solidarity,
BRAVO