In July, Americans were given an easy-to-remember number to call, text or chat ? 988 ? when faced with a behavioral health crisis. The goal of 988 is to connect those in need with appropriate mental health response, instead of law enforcement or medical emergency response. But there are still challenges in the way to an equitable response for all, including varied resources, awareness, and stigma. This fireside chat will explore ways 988 has opened behavioral health access and what remains a challenge for the initiative regarding health equity.