Leah’s Story

Leah, deeply involved in STL Mutual Aid, describes the organization as a genuine manifestation of the principle "for us, by us." For Leah, mutual aid is not just about helping others; it's about solidarity, seeing, and supporting one another without judgment or unnecessary bureaucracy. This philosophy is rooted in the collective struggles and the shared human experience of needing help and being able to offer help in return.

Leah views mutual aid as a transformative force that fosters community connection, builds confidence, and nurtures hope and joy among individuals. She highlights the importance of mutual aid in St. Louis, a city she describes as a "small city, big town," known for its strong community bonds and collaborative spirit.

Throughout the interview, Leah shares how her personal journey and experiences of collective struggle shaped her commitment to mutual aid. She recounts her initial involvement with the organization during the pandemic, prompted by a call from a pastor concerned about the community's needs, which led her to collaborate closely with other community organizers.

Leah emphasizes that mutual aid provides a platform for people to contribute in various ways, according to their capacity, and receive support tailored to their needs. This system helps to build a resilient community that can thrive on mutual respect and shared responsibility. She passionately argues for the necessity of mutual aid in combating systemic issues like white supremacy, classism, and environmental injustice, advocating for a community-driven approach to governance and problem-solving.

Overall, Leah’s story paints a vivid picture of how mutual aid functions as a vital support network in St. Louis, driven by the values of empathy, accountability, and a deep-seated belief in the power of community.