Did you know that July is BIPOC Mental Health Month? To wrap up July, AAVP is hosting a community conversation focused on this important topic and we hope you can join the discussion. Appetizers and refreshments will be provided!
We are excited to announce that our featured speaker is Tenecia Lockard, a Mental Health Clinician II at McLaughlin Youth Center where she has been working as the substance abuse clinician since 2014. As a woman of color, graduate from the University of Alaska Anchorage with a Master of Social Work (MSW), and expert in the field of mental health, Tenecia will be sharing her knowledge and craft with us and exploring the unique experiences of BIPOC regarding mental health.
BIPOC stands for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. By including “BI” in addition to “POC”, we are honoring the unique experiences of Black and Indigenous individuals and their communities, as well as the spectrum of existence and experience by POC. This month is dedicated to breaking down stigmas around mental health, which is exacerbated for BIPOC individuals who disproportionately experience systematic barriers and accessibility issues regarding mental health services and care. The mental health of BIPOC are recognized this month with hopes to address the needs and challenges of historically oppressed racial and ethnic groups in the United States, increase awareness and education, dismantle harmful stigmas, systems, biases, and barriers, and promote mental health wellness for BIPOC communities.
This event will take place in person and is open to all members of the community! With respect to CDC's recent recommendation that individuals wear masks indoors whether they are vaccinated or not, masks will be worn at this event to ensure the safety of community members. We are excited for you to join us in a safe, inclusive space to learn, discuss, and grow.
Please contact AAVP Facilitator Quacyya Cuaresma at quacyya_c@awaic.org or AWAIC Men’s Engagement Specialist Naya Raymundo at naya_r@awaic.org if you have any questions or feedback about the event!
