It’s also World Mental Health Day in October. What does “Black Health and Wellness,” mean when considering mental health?
I think it’s important to tackle any stereotype regarding wellness, like ‘Black people can’t get skin cancer’ (we can!), as well as any barriers to talking about mental health. But more than anything, it’s about ensuring equality when it comes to access and quality of care. Unfortunately, there are also prejudices within the healthcare system that need to be discussed. I once went to A&E with crippling stomach pains, and the first thing the doctor asked me, before I was examined, was about my ethnicity. And that doctor was Black!
What comes to mind when I say the words Black Joy to you?
Uninhibited and celebratory expression of Black identities and culture, in all its forms. No rules, no limitations.
What Black creators, organisations, or movements inspire/empower you?
I like any celebration of diversity within the Black community, like Black Pride, and organisations that encourage inclusion and participation of Black people in spaces where we’re underrepresented, e.g. Black Trail Runners. Personally, I get inspired by Black celebrities who know they are powerful and use their platform to make a difference, like Lewis Hamilton and Marcus Rashford.
Probably. Sometimes it’s difficult to know whether you’re being treated differently for being a woman, an immigrant or Black. Class definitely comes into it, and as we know the relationship between socioeconomic status and ethnicity is very much intertwined. I know I’ve had opportunities because I speak a certain way and have an education. People will still have assumptions though, and they get very confused when they struggle to put me in a box.