A new sign has been unveiled in Prichard in memory of a local teenager who lost her life to suicide

MOBILE, Alabama (WALA) – A new plaque was unveiled in Prichard on Saturday in honor of a local teenager who committed suicide.

Kensley Olivia Yates tragically took her own life on September 21, 2023 after experiencing severe bullying.

A group of Prichard’s family, friends and city officials gathered to see her new sign and celebrate her life. The signs stand tall at the intersection of Wasson and Whistler Streets in Prichard.

“She continues to inspire others who didn’t know her at all,” said one guest.

Kensley was described as a ray of light to those who knew her.

Prichard council member Stephanie Johnson Norwood says she hopes the sign will be a lifesaver for people passing by.

“Our sign has the suicide hotline number 988. We have news – are you feeling hopeless? Call 988 – that’s the first step,” Norwood said.

Norwood, along with Shaundra Brown, director of Lifelines Counseling Services in Mobile, presented a suicide prevention seminar to the nearly 100 guests who attended the ceremony.

Both women say the event was not just a souvenir, but an urgent call to action.

“They will start looking and listening to their family and friends and pick up on those signs that this person is not themselves. This person has no joy, they read all the time, they are immersed in their room,” Norwood said.

Norwood says it’s a difficult conversation, but a necessary one.

“The African-American community lacks mental health. Once you open up and say you’re not alone, many people feel this way – you don’t have to hide it, find someone to talk to… and that’s the secret. We need to let people know… I will help you,” Norwood said.

“We want to be heard and to be seen. “We want to know that we are loved, that we have a connection, that there are people who care about us… and we want our loved ones to know that we are here for you and we love you,” Brown added.