Break barriers even while breaking away from it all. Whether having a porch conversation, lounging on Inkwell, or at a Union Chapel event, thought leaders have always leveraged their time on Martha’s Vineyard to tackle systemic inequities and transform the lives of Black people across the nation.
Boston Medical Center is committed to advancing the conversation and transforming the health and wellbeing of the communities that we serve. As a national leader in health equity, we are committed to advancing Black mental health and economic mobility. We know you are, too. So, let’s connect. Let’s be in community.
Join us on the Vineyard on August 6 and 7 as we host two discussions focused on addressing the inequities faced by our communities, locally and nationwide.
In a candid and thought-provoking discussion, experts and community leaders will come together to discuss the often-overlooked challenges surrounding Black men’s mental health. Unpacking the layers of societal expectations and historical traumas, the discussion will shed light on the unique challenges faced by Black men in accessing mental healthcare. From the pressure to embody strength to the impact of systemic racism on psychological wellbeing, panelists will underscore the urgent need for culturally sensitive support systems and destigmatization within Black communities. Join us in advocating for a brighter future where we discuss community-driven initiatives to foster healing, resilience, and empowerment among Black men.
Moderator & Speakers
Symone Sanders Townsend
Moderator
Political strategist and commentator; Host, MSNBC's 'The Weekend'
David Henderson, MD
Speaker
Chair of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Chief of Psychiatry at Boston Medical Center
Demond Martin
Speaker
Co-founder and CEO, WellWithAII
Will Packer
Speaker
Film Producer, CEO/Founder, Will Packer Productions
Join us for an engaging panel discussion on economic mobility in the Black community, where we dig into the transformative power of economic advancement as a catalyst for health equity. We will explore the crucial topic of access to home ownership, recognizing the historical context of redlining and its lasting impact on Black families. We will also discuss initiatives that foster entrepreneurship and small business development within the Black community. Solutions we will explore include access to capital, mentorship, and resources that can provide the necessary support to foster sustainable economic growth and financial stability. This dynamic conversation will challenge existing paradigms and ignite actionable ideas to drive meaningful change.
Moderator & Speakers
Symone Sanders Townsend
Moderator
Political strategist and commentator; Host, MSNBC's 'The Weekend'
Ayanna Pressley
Speaker
Congresswoman, Massachusetts 7th District
Khalil Gibran Muhammad, PhD
Speaker
Harvard Kennedy School, Ford Foundation Professor of History, Race, and Public Policy
Thea James, MD, MBA
Speaker
Vice President of Mission, Boston Medical Center
Rashad Bilal
Speaker
Chief Executive Officer, Earn Your Leisure