Dear Community Members,

As CEO of Baltic Street Wellness Solutions, I want to express my deep sorrow and solidarity following the tragic events of November 18th, 2024. The senseless act of violence, which resulted in the stabbing of three individuals and the heartbreaking loss of a life, has left our community shaken. Our thoughts and condolences go out to the victims, their families, and everyone affected.

In times of tragedy, it is natural to seek understanding and answers. However, it is crucial that we do not allow the actions of one individual to perpetuate harmful stereotypes or demonize an entire group of people. People living with mental health diagnoses or struggling with substance use challenges are among the most vulnerable members of our society. Too often, they are not the perpetrators but the victims of violence, misunderstanding, and systemic neglect.

This moment calls for compassion, not stigmatization. Stigma perpetuates fear, isolation, and barriers to care—exactly the opposite of what our community needs to heal and prevent future harm.

At Baltic Street Wellness Solutions, we strongly believe that forced treatment is not the ultimate or best solution to the complex issues of mental health challenges, housing insecurity, or food insecurity. Laws such as Kendra’s Law may appear to offer immediate solutions but often fail to address the systemic inequities and root causes that contribute to these crises. Forcing treatment on individuals does not necessarily ensure safety or healing—it can deepen mistrust, reinforce systemic oppression, and fail to provide sustainable pathways to recovery.

Instead, we must focus on creating equitable access to housing, food, and community-based care systems that support individuals in making their own decisions about their recovery and wellness. Peer specialists—individuals with lived experience of mental health and substance use challenges—are uniquely equipped to offer understanding, support, and practical solutions during crises. Their presence can de-escalate tensions, build trust, and connect individuals to services that address their needs with dignity and respect.

We urge city agencies and policymakers to prioritize the integration of peer professionals across all emergency response systems. Peer specialists are not only effective in crisis intervention but also in fostering long-term stability and recovery. By investing in peer-led solutions and addressing systemic barriers to care, we can create a society that values human dignity and ensures that no one is left behind.

Let us honor the lives impacted by this tragedy by rejecting stigma and forced treatment and committing ourselves to compassionate, community-driven solutions. Together, we can build a future where safety, understanding, and equity prevail for all.

In solidarity and hope,

Taina Martinez-Laing, MSW, NYCPS

CEO, Baltic Street Wellness Solutions