Free breakfast event to commemorate Black History Month
“Let’s Go For a Ride,” a new podcast designed to spark conversation about Black men’s mental health, will host a BLK Power Breakfast on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at Josephine’s Restaurant in honor of Black History Month. Taking place from 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m., the breakfast will feature a dynamic panel discussion addressing the stigmas around seeking mental healthcare for Black men as well as the past, present, and future possibilities of Black social, economic, and political engagement.
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Minority Health, Black men are 4 times as likely to die from suicide than Black women. Additionally, despite Black men, ages 18 and older, being at a higher risk of trauma exposure, they are less likely to seek out mental health support services. With recent studies confirming that trauma is a major medical and public health issue, it’s important to facilitate conversations and cultivate spaces where the stressors and causes of mental health issues amongst Black men can be tackled.
From a developed mistrust of health institutions to repeated experiences of neighborhood violence, the Black community has a long history of mental health issues that go undiagnosed and/or untreated. The BLK Power Breakfast intends to provide a free, welcoming and informative environment where Black men can engage in meaningful dialogue about the importance of prioritizing mental health. Hosted by Victor Love of “Let’s Go For a Ride” and moderated by WVON’s Matt McGill, panelists include Congressman Danny K. Davis, 6th Ward Alderman William Hall, Jahmal Cole, Jeffrey Muhammad, Toussaint Werner, Dr. Terry Mason, Ariel Ben Israel, Vondale Singleton, and Obasi.