When you call 911, an operator connects you to police, firefighters, or paramedics, depending on your situation. But what about mental health? Police are often left responding to mental health crises, even though they don’t have the time, the training, or the resources to do so. In this inspiring talk, Rep. Leslie Herod explains why need a better solution. Representative Leslie Herod was elected in 2016 as the first LGBTQ African American in the Colorado General Assembly. Since then, she has passed 68 bills. Her work includes ending cash bail for minor offenses, de-felonizing drug possession, and passing a comprehensive police accountability bill following the murder of George Floyd. She is the Chair of the House Finance Committee, Vice Chair of the House Judiciary Committee, Chair of the Committee on Legal Services, and the Chair of the Colorado Black Democratic Legislative Caucus. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx