Brandon Hay is a very intelligent brother. Grounded and Focused in his community goals. Since I met him almost 10 years ago, he's continued to lift himself, his family and community upward. Although his main focus has always been BlackDaddiesClub he is ever evolving as his consciousness grows. With that being said, it is no surprise that his evolution has carried him into the unspoken, hidden, stigmatized realm of mental illness amongst minority groups. How would you like t participate in what promises to be an illuminating series of discussions around the subject of mental health in the black community?
Mental Health is generally looked at by society as a way to ostracize what we don't understand. Within the black community, it is often looked at as something mostly white people go though. Part of this may lend from the idea that blacks are traditionally put on a pedestal of perceived great inner strength and physical prowess. I mean... we did make it through slavery and the civic war right? We don't need Xanax and Percacet.... or do we?
These ideas and more can be discussed in an open yet safe environment where you can comfortably express your transparency, when navigating through mental issues. Brandon is an excellent listener who analyses any topic from varying perspectives so as to develop a well-rounded concept to base his genuine line of questioning on. There is a sense of comfort that eventually overcomes you as you break down your wall of vulnerability brick by brick When I asked him why he was having this community discussion, he responded "yeah...its important because folks are dying out here in silence"
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO HAVE THIS TALK?
WHY IS THIS DISCUSSION IMPORTANT?
Sponsored by Across Boundaries, the focus of these discussions will give a platform to community members to share their thoughts about what mental illness means and how it has affected them. In addition, we will highlight the various mental health support networks that are available to individuals and families.
Over the past three months, we learned from various community members that potential participants were worried they may have to disclose information that would leave them feeling vulnerable.
Therefore, we will be using mock case studies developed by Across Boundaries, so that community members will be able to engage in candid discussion about mental health awareness that is both non-invasive and empowering
The dialogues will be taking place in five different venues throughout Toronto during the month of November. Each discussion aims to give centre stage to the various ways that mental illness can affect us, based on class, gender, sexual orientation, and location
These discussions will break down misunderstandings about mental health and work to kill the idea that black people don't ever suffer from mental illness. Talking will show and prove that it's an issue not easily remedied by pseudo-concern. Reminding us, that its a disability, not a crime. It will especially create an environment where we can be vulnerable and express how we are really feeling. It will allow us to be heard.
