Recognizing Black History Month

Dear Friends,

Every year, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History designates a theme for Black History Month, and in 2022, we are lifting up Black Health and Wellness. At this point in our nation’s history, our understanding of Black health and wellness is broader and more nuanced than ever. Not only have we had a devastating look into health disparities through the COVID-19 pandemic, but we also have more Black professionals and influencers than ever speaking on the importance of mental and physical wellness.

Black practitioners have forged pathways of their own where institutions have failed and systemic barriers persist. Ala Stanford, MD and the Black Doctor’s COVID Consortium found ways to reach vaccine-hesitant communities by providing guidance from physicians who look like them, go to the same churches that they do, who have the same life experience and historical context as they do when navigating decisions about their health care.

Superstars like Beyoncé and Serena Williams have brought attention to bias in health care that leads to the high Black maternal mortality rate in the United States. These high-profile stories have been central to many recent discussions led by Black clinicians to address the issue and to unite others working to improve outcomes through organizations like the Black Mamas Matter Alliance.

Many Black leaders have shown their support for mental health care in their communities and led by example in prioritizing their own self-care. Perhaps the most high-profile instance of promoting self-care has been Simone Biles’ withdrawal from events at last year’s Olympic Games. “Simone Biles teaches us that we are truly, intrinsically worthy beyond the entertainment and expectation of others,” said Linda James Myers, PhD, of the Association of Black Psychologists.

While CII celebrates the contributions of our Black colleagues year-round, we want to take this opportunity to raise them up once again: The number of Black families CII supports through our programming continues to increase, and our Black colleagues’ work and visibility in our organization are so important. Black clinicians, teachers and staff who promote mental wellness help to destigmatize mental health care in our communities. Families in their care are comforted by their presence and expertise.

And I thank them for all that they do.

With gratitude,

Martine Singer
President & CEO