An uptick in intimate partner violence, substance use and suicide were also reported among people of color and the numbers are expected to grow in 2021 and beyond if systemic changes are not made.Īpproved recipients of this fund will receive payment vouchers. The deaths of Breonna Taylor, George Floyd and Ahmaud Arbery (just to name a few) exacerbated the daily toxic stress load already experienced by most Black people. Sadly, studies show that 63% of Black people believe that a mental health condition is a sign of "personal weakness".īlack people began seeking treatment and support more than ever before due to variables such as unemployment, police violence and COVID related deaths. However, only 1 in 4 (25%) of African Americans sought treatment for a mental health issue, compared to 40 % of white individuals. In 20 studies showed that African Americans were 20% more likely to experience mental health issues than the rest of the population. Change takes a long time, but it does happen.The Therapy Fund for Black Folx was created to help raise awareness and funds to ensure that at least 100 Black individuals or families in Georgia who are unable to pay have access to 4 - 6 therapy sessions with a licensed and qualified mental health professional. King is: “the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice”. I take great pride in working at OpenSesame where I am given the opportunity to succeed and while doing so, be my own authentic black self. I believe that great companies have not only great products but also great people that work there. Having resources like the ERGs truly helps to build a culture of an inclusive workplace. To me, OpenSesame has been a blessing where any employee can be their authentic selves. Dedication, discipline, and determination are what are required. I proudly tell them, “yes” and that they too can achieve their dream with hard work and dedication. I was often asked if there are any people who look like me in those fields. Martin Luther King Day, I got an opportunity to volunteer at Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity (a historically black fraternity) by mentoring black boys on the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics careers. By reflecting on our past (even one as recent as May 2020) we can come together to hopefully create a better future.īlack History Month is not only a time to recognize the experience of black people, but also to reflect on the achievements of trailblazers who have forged a path of excellence before us. Black History Month is one of the many ways that we can continue the conversation. Ever since, I have seen more Americans try to understand the black experience through mediums like spoken word, movies, art, as well as having deeper conversations. I believe that America experienced a turning point on May 25, 2020-the day George Floyd was murdered. The ERG gives me the opportunity to build positive relationships with colleagues in my community, but in some cases provides a safe space to talk about our true feelings of hurt and pain. We meet as a group every two weeks, have a private online Slack channel, and often feature guest speakers along with coordinating a virtual monthly cookout. As one of the leaders and founding members of Black Folx ERG, it has been beneficial to have a space where black people can come together to talk about our experiences in life. On behalf of Black Folx ERG, it is an honor to be featured this month. Read on to hear from Roo Gatimu, Sales Development Representative and co-leader of the Black Folx ERG (Employee Resource Group) at OpenSesame. As part of our celebration of Black History Month, OpenSesame is empowering black voices and featuring stories from our colleagues.
0 kommentar(er)
