As we prepare to exit Mental Health Awareness Month and enter Men’s Health Month, the month takes on an entirely different meaning for black men and boys. Black men have the lowest health status and lowest life expectancy of any demographic. 60% of Black men are more likely to die from stroke than non-hispanic and white men, 75% of Black men are less likely to have health insurance than white men. It is no secret that for years structural forces have been in place to the detriment of the health and well-being of Black men. Social conditions like racism, segregation, stress, incarceration affect a high proportion of Black men's health. Being a black man is a high risk factor! While the month of June seeks to heighten the awareness of preventable health issues and inspire early detection and treatment of diseases among men and boys, Black men and boys need more. Sadly, the startling statistics paints a bleak picture about the hard truth trajectory of black men and boys. Strength needs support is a template for wholeness and healing among men and boys in the Black community. It could be the answer to the clarion call to reduce isolation and support long-term engagements in communities and build an eco-system unique to sustaining the tribe of black men and boys.
Our Guests:
Richard Rowe, MPH
Orin Howard, LCSW-C
Dr. Bruce Purnell
Mujahid Muhammad
How can you get involved?