Myisha’s Story

Myisha’s journey with STL Mutual Aid began during the COVID-19 pandemic when she herself received aid and became curious about the organization's efforts to support community needs without invasive questioning. Inspired by the direct assistance she received, Myisha decided to get involved, recognizing the vital role of mutual aid in providing immediate support to those in need.

Myisha emphasizes that mutual aid is fundamentally about caring, supporting, and protecting each other, a concept she relates to her work in housing and environmental justice. She describes her involvement as "godly work," underscoring the importance of treating everyone as family and meeting people's needs directly and compassionately.

Myisha explains that stable and healthy housing is essential for community well-being, impacting everything from utility bills and food accessibility to transportation and mental health services. She highlights the disparities in access to these resources, especially in underprivileged communities, and the profound impact they have on individuals' ability to function and thrive in society.

A significant part of her narrative revolves around the transformative potential of mutual aid to change societal systems that perpetuate inequality and injustice. Myisha is optimistic about the power of community solidarity to create a "beloved community," where systems are reformed to genuinely support the welfare of all its members.

She passionately argues that mutual aid isn't just about meeting immediate needs but also about building a sustained movement that empowers individuals and communities to advocate for systemic changes. This includes addressing issues in public education, housing affordability, and community safety—all integral to fostering a supportive and equitable society.

Overall, Myisha’s story illuminates the profound impact of mutual aid on individual lives and community dynamics, advocating for a compassionate and proactive approach to social justice and community support.