February 15, 2010

The Board of Directors of Mental Health America of Oregon (MHAO) is deeply saddened and outraged at the loss of your sons, brothers, fathers, uncles and friends, Aaron Campbell and Timothy Douglass. While we did not know Aaron or Timothy personally, we strongly believe that all people deserve understanding, support and skillful assistance when experiencing emotional duress and extreme stress. We feel deep sorrow at the injustice and violence that resulted in Aaron’s loss of life. We wish that somehow through our work, we could bring Aaron and Timothy back to you. Of course, that isn’t possible, but Aaron’s life will not have been in vain.

We want you to know that Aaron’s life and the terribly wrong response to his distress will only add to our strong commitment to change the way the Portland Police and law enforcement everywhere treat persons of color and people who are undergoing mental health issues. We will not forget Aaron Campbell.

We will hold your family close in our thoughts and prayers as we work to hold law enforcement and city officials accountable in order to prevent another tragic loss. We will also work with the Albina Ministerial Alliance to support their work and efforts to bring some sense of justice for your families. If there is anything that we can do to be of support to your family and community, please do not hesitate to call us.

Our prayers are with Aaron and Timothy and with you all.

The Board of Directors wishes peace and blessings to you all, your families and friends, our community, and our world.