Friend,

We are devastated by the news of another life taken too soon from the gun violence crisis in Black and Brown communities.

We are still reeling from the loss of Memphis rapper, partner and father, Young Dolph who died by gun violence yesterday in his community where he had lived since the age of two.

Homicide is now the #1 cause of death for Black men and boys. These acts of gun violence do not just impact the victims and their families, but entire communities suffer from trauma after a homicide.

Young Dolph should still be here and leaders in Memphis and Tennessee have failed to advance proven solutions to save lives and prevent tragic moments like this.

Here are 7 ways you can help Dolph’s community and support efforts to prevent violence:

Support the "Black Men Deserve To Grow Old" Initiative: After losing her brother to violence, Dolph’s partner Mia created Momeo, an apparel and social justice company, that launched this initiative to support families impacted by homicide and hardship.
Support 901 Bloc Squad: Support this Memphis-based mentorship and violence intervention community outreach organization working in the community to intervene violence everyday.
Support Makeda's Homemade Cookies: Support this Black and Women owned business that was the scene of the shooting, but also a favorite spot of Dolph’s and has been a cornerstone in Memphis, TN for decades.
Demand Memphis Leaders Take Action To Reduce Violence: Click this link to tweet, call and email Memphis leaders to take action to invest in violence prevention strategies beyond law enforcement.
Attend Our "Healing After Loss" Focused Volunteer Call Join an interactive conversation on healing after loss and trauma led by expert speakers.
Demand Congress Fund Violence Intervention in Build Back Better Act: Congress is debating the passage of the Build Back Better Act that includes $5 billion in funding for community violence intervention and prevention programs.
Learn More On Our Building Community Call: Join this call to learn about local advocacy efforts happening across the country to address violence and how these solutions can be advanced in local communities like Memphis.

“You only get one shot at life, one life to live—make the most out of it. Put as many smiles as you can on people’s faces. Help as many people as you can.” - Adolph “Young Dolph” Thornton

Thank you for your continued support and for doing what you can to support Dolph’s family, community and all those impacted by this tragic loss.

Greg Jackson Jr.

Executive Director,

Community Justice Action Fund