Events › Sparking the Conversation: Lived Experiences of Black Mental Health

Join PureSpark, BEAM, and the Boston Public Library for an in-depth and compelling conversation with folks who have lived experience, who have been through mental health struggles, and use their experience and resilience to help others along on their journey.

July is National BIPOC Mental Health Month. While statistics highlight the challenges faced by Black communities, this event goes beyond the numbers. Each year we learn about the statistics but it’s time we learn about the stories behind the statistics.

Formally recognized in June 2008 (and currently designated as), Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month was created to bring awareness to the unique struggles that underrepresented groups face in regard to mental illness in the US. Bebe Moore Campbell was an American author, journalist, teacher, and mental health advocate who worked tirelessly to shed light on the mental health needs of the Black community and other underrepresented communities.

Light refreshments and mingling 5:00pm - 6:15pm; and main program 6:15pm - 7:15pm.  

All are welcome.

Together, let's:

• Break the stigma surrounding mental health.
• Learn about the unique struggles faced by Black communities.
• Spark important conversations about healing and access to care.
• Find out more about PureSpark here: About PureSpark - PureSpark (yourpurespark.com)
• Hear lived experiences from a panel of Black mental health advocates:

Carmen Blyden, MBA, Owner of Healthy Energy Actively Living (HEAL)

Enzo Silon Surin, MFA, Award-winning Poet, Educator, Publisher, and Social Advocate

Daniel Callahan, Multimedia Artist and Designer

Moderated by:

Paris Alston, Co-host of Morning Edition and The Wake Up podcast, GBH News.  Find out more: 
Paris Alston | GBH (wgbh.org).

Accessibility Notice: We strive to make our events accessible. To request a disability accommodation and/or language services, contact the department listed in the "Contact Info" pane on the right. Please allow at least two weeks to arrange accommodation.