Tackling the spike in suicide rates among Black men in America
The high-profile suicides of Stephen “tWitch” Boss and Ian Alexander Jr. are not surprising to many Black men, who are “screaming inside,” according to actor Jamal Averett. In fact, data from the California Mental Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission shows that the suicide rate for Black individuals in the state rose by 31.1% between 2010 and 2019. “I think in order for us to really get those rates down, we have to build community with other Black men,” said Averett. He recently participated in a healing circle event titled "YouGood," where 181 Black men participated in guided yoga, meditation, journaling and other exercises designed to encourage expressing their feelings. One of the event's main goals was to challenge the cultural stigma that many Black men carry around emotional vulnerability. “Growing up, we’re always taught to hold it in. Just be tough.”
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Minnesota students and health officials explain causes of youth addiction to vaping
While vaping use among Minnesota youth declined between 2019 and 2022, the state continues to conduct research and public health campaigns to educate youth about the negative impacts of vaping and curb use. Even youth at Eagen High School in Eagen, Minnesota have joined the cause. “I’ve seen a lot of my best friends swear that they’re never going to touch any nicotine products, and now they’re going through two to three vapes a week—and I can see how much it’s impacted their academic life, their interactions with people, their priorities,” said senior Preethika Naveen, who joined the school’s local Tobacco-Free Society chapter last year.
Sahan Journal
interviewed numerous people who pointed out that e-cigarettes were marketed as fun and flavorful, which contributed to teenagers using them without understanding the long-term impact it can have on their health.
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Birthing the next generation of doulas of color
In New York City, a recent citywide initiative has made it possible for low-income families and marginalized communities to hire doulas (who provide assistance before, during, and after childbirth). The Citywide Doula Initiative, which was signed into law last September, has hired 200 doulas, many of whom are Black and Brown, reports palabra. Also, the program has also made doula education accessible to aspiring birth workers, who couldn't otherwise pay for training (some cost $1,500 or more) by funding training at community organizations. Research shows that pregnant people of color need the extra support doulas provide as they are at an increased risk of maternal mortality and other health complications.Read to learn more about the initiatives powering the next generation of doulas of color →
Meet the Game Changers
Highlighting the innovators transforming health outcomes in our communities
Shekar Krishnan made history in 2021 when he became the first-ever elected Indian-American New York City council member.
Documented
caught up with Krishnan to learn more about his vision for uplifting AAPI communities in Queens