A Message of Mental Health on Anniversary of Alderman’s Death

Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley posted a photo and message on Thursday afternoon reflecting on the death of Ald. Jonathan Brostoff, who died by suicide a year ago this week.

Brostoff and Crowley served in the state Assembly together for nearly three years, and Brostoff was a longtime champion of mental health and suicide prevention efforts. His death on Nov. 4, 2024, stunned the Milwaukee community. 

In 2018, my friend Jonathan Brostoff and I stood together at a NAMI Wisconsin event, united in our dedication to ending the stigma surrounding mental illness – a cause deeply personal to both of us.

This week marks one year since we lost Jonathan to suicide. I’ve struggled to find the right words to talk about this loss, but the truth is there are no perfect words. Jonathan’s impact on Milwaukee extends far beyond what words can capture. He was a tireless public servant, a fierce advocate, a loving husband and father, and a positive influence on everyone who was fortunate enough to know him. I miss him every day, and the hole he left on our community is felt by many.

Here’s the thing: Suicide is a public health crisis, and we need to talk about it. Far too many people still suffer in silence, afraid to ask for help or unsure where to turn. And too many families in Milwaukee County and across the country know the grief of losing someone they love to suicide. We must continue to build a community where reaching out for support is met with compassion – because talking about suicide is not harmful; silence is.

Jonathan dedicated his life to making Milwaukee a healthier, more compassionate, and better-connected community. He believed deeply in service and in the dignity of every person. The best way we can honor his memory is by continuing his work to end the stigma surrounding mental illness, expand access to mental health resources, and invest in the well-being of our community.

If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out. Check on your loved ones, create space for vulnerable conversations, listen without judgement, and seek professional help when you need it. Call or text 988 or the Milwaukee County Crisis Line at 414-257-7222 for 24/7 support or visit county.milwaukee.gov/BHD for additional resources.

Help exists. Healing is possible. And sometimes all it takes is for one person to check in. It could mean saving a life.