Black History Month, observed annually in February in the United States and Canada, and in October in the United Kingdom, is a time dedicated to celebrating the achievements and contributions of Black individuals throughout history. It serves as a crucial reminder of the resilience and strength of the Black community, highlighting their significant impact on culture, science, politics, and society at large. Originating from “Negro History Week,” which was established in 1926 by historian Carter G. Woodson, the observance was expanded to a month-long celebration in 1976. Black History Month not only honors the past but also addresses the ongoing struggle for equality and justice, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the diverse experiences and contributions of Black people. It encourages education, reflection, and dialogue, aiming to build a more inclusive and equitable society.
This month, we’d like to highlight some amazing initiatives happening over at London Hospital, while also taking the time to acknowledge the challenges many communities face in mental health and addictions.
Celebrating Black Culture at LHSC
One of the standout events was a cultural lunch featuring Yaya’s Kitchen, a local restaurant known for its innovative fusion of ingredients and techniques from the global south. Maryam and Malvin Wright, the owners of Yaya’s Kitchen, emphasized the evolving nature of food, stating, “We believe that food is a journey. What our forefathers ate is not what our great-grandparents ate or what we’re eating. Food evolves and changes from places to spaces. And that is the journey we want to share with other people.” This culinary experience not only delighted the taste buds but also served as a bridge to connect people from different backgrounds, fostering a sense of community and understanding. Read more about the cultural lunch at LHSC.
Addressing Healthcare Disparities
Nursing student Nyechuor Deng, a participant in Western University’s Black Student Leadership University Experience program, brought attention to the Monk Skin Tone Scale. This tool is designed to help healthcare professionals identify pressure injuries on individuals with darker skin tones, a critical issue often overlooked in medical settings. Deng highlighted the importance of such tools in preventing biased healthcare and building trust within the Black community. By ensuring that people of colour receive more accurate and effective medical care, the Monk Skin Tone Scale plays a vital role in dismantling systemic barriers in healthcare. Learn more about the Monk Skin Tone Scale.
Art and Cultural Expression
Amsa Yaro, a Nigerian-born artist, led an art printing session that allowed participants to engage in a creative and meaningful activity. Yaro noted, “It might only take five minutes, but it is their own, and it has brightened up their day. People are curious about new things, and this is an opportunity to show them something new.” The art session not only provided a therapeutic outlet but also showcased the rich artistic traditions of the Black community, further enriching the cultural landscape of LHSC. Read more about the art printing session.
Creating a Safe and Inclusive Environment
Cathy Wood, the Black health lead at LHSC, emphasized the significance of these events in fostering a more inclusive and culturally sensitive environment. “We’re really trying to bring awareness about black culture into our organization,” Wood said. “If we can do events like this where the Black community can see that LHSC is really invested in dismantling those systems of racism, discrimination, and oppression, then we know that we will have folks feel safe within these walls.” These initiatives are crucial in creating a healthcare environment where everyone feels valued and respected. Learn more about LHSC’s efforts.
The Broader Impact
The cultural lunch and art display at LHSC are part of a larger effort to celebrate Black History Month in London. These events aim to highlight the contributions and experiences of Black Canadians, fostering a sense of community and understanding. For more stories about the experiences of Black Canadians, check out the CBC project ‘Being Black in Canada,’ which offers a platform for sharing success stories and addressing anti-Black racism. Explore the ‘Being Black in Canada’ project.
Supporting Black Mental Health and Addictions
To support Black mental health and addictions, several actionable steps can be taken. First, educate yourself about the unique challenges Black Canadians face, including systemic racism and its impact on mental health. Second, support Black-led organizations by donating or volunteering, such as the Black Mental Health Alliance of Canada. Third, advocate for systemic reforms to address disparities in healthcare and social services. Fourth, invest in Black-owned businesses to strengthen the economic well-being of Black communities. Lastly, create safe spaces for Black individuals to share their experiences and needs, ensuring their voices are heard and amplified. Read more about supporting Black mental health.
Challenges and Progress in Rural Black Nova Scotia
In rural Black Nova Scotia, the provision of mental health care remains a significant challenge. The lack of culturally informed care and the lack of transparency in implementing the recommendations from the Lionel Desmond inquiry report are critical issues. While the province has expanded virtual care and created a men’s helpline, more needs to be done. The recruitment of more Black mental health providers and better integration of culturally informed care into adult services are essential. The pilot program for short-term medication, support, and diagnosis to reduce wait times for psychiatric care is showing positive results, but its expansion is still under review. Learn more about mental health care in rural Black Nova Scotia.
Recommendations for Better Implementation
To better implement the recommendations from the Lionel Desmond inquiry report for rural Black Nova Scotians, the province should focus on several key areas. Firstly, the expansion of virtual care should be tailored to meet the culturally diverse needs of African Nova Scotians in rural areas, ensuring that the care provided is culturally informed. Secondly, there should be a more transparent and accountable process for monitoring the implementation of the recommendations, such as regular public updates and open meetings. Additionally, the recruitment of more Black mental health providers is crucial to address the unique needs of the community, particularly in adult services. Lastly, the review and enforcement of protocols for handling high-risk individuals, especially those with a history of intimate partner violence, should be prioritized to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Moving Forward
The events at LHSC during Black History Month are a testament to the power of cultural celebration and education in fostering a more inclusive and equitable healthcare environment. By recognizing and addressing the unique challenges faced by the Black community, we can work towards a future where everyone has access to the care and support they need. Whether through culinary experiences, art sessions, or educational initiatives, these efforts contribute to a more compassionate and just society.