Tools on anti-Black racism and mental health

For communities that are traditionally closed off to discussions about mental health (feelings, emotions, well-being), making art offers another door for self-exploration and expression.

Mental illness and by extension mental health, have long been topics not discussed in Black communities. Any discussion about not feeling okay mentally or feelings of being overwhelmed or depressed has traditionally been seen as signs of weakness within Black communities.

A 2021 report by the Mental Health Commission of Canada, listed the following myths and misconceptions held by Black communities about mental illness:

  • Mental health support is reserved for people experiencing severe mental illness or psychiatric issues but not those in need of a healthy mind to deal with emotions and learn how to improve the quality of their lives.
  • Mental health problems can get better on their own.
  • Black people who seek professional help have less faith in God.
  • Ongoing mental or emotional challenges are an inherent part of the Black experience (otherwise known as “the struggle”) — therefore, mental illness isn’t a problem in Black communities.

There is a stigma associated with presenting oneself as anything less than strong and capable. Over time, these beliefs chip away at our mental health, leaving us feeling alone and isolated.

TAIBU Afrocentric Healing Circles

Explore TAIBU’s Afrocentric Healing Circles Project – a compelling three-part film series delving into Black Mental Health and Toronto’s unique Afrocentric healthcare approach. Uncover the impact of systemic anti-Black racism and the transformative power of Healing Circles. An educational tool advocating for culturally significant practices to foster mental wellness in Black communities.

Healing and Wellness (adapted from ACT Now! National Conference)

Embrace Black Healing & Wellness: Explore cultural practices, healing circles, and AfrikCore movements for holistic health.

Storytelling

Elders champion Afrocentric wisdom for holistic mental health. Embrace storytelling, community, and traditional African values.

Art

Explore the transformative power of art in Black communities. This community art hive fosters creativity, unity, and well-being through inclusive principles.

Amandla Olwazi Project

Amandla Olwazi- The Power of Knowledge is a unique and innovative national knowledge mobilization project that is guided by Afrocentric traditional values and principles. Building on existing research around anti-Black racism and its impact in Canada, the project raises awareness of the impact of anti-Black racism on the mental health and wellness of Black communities. It bases the knowledge creation/building on grass-root community-based approaches rooted in Afrocentric values and principles through the lens of anti-Black racism. This project brought together a wide range of individuals and organizations from broader Black communities, Academic institutions, interfaith leaders and communities, Community and Social Services agencies, and other mainstream and Black-led organizations. Under the Mental Health of Black Canadians (MHBC) stream, TAIBU has partnered with the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) to synthesize knowledge, create awareness around the mental health and well-being of Black Canadians, and develop tools and resources.

Amandla Olwazi has the following five broad and overarching objectives.

  1. Knowledge Creation, Building, Development, and Synthesis
  2. Development of the Afrocentric principled knowledge Mobilization Products
  3. Knowledge Mobilization Network Implementation
  4. Creating a strong collaborative partnership with groups that leverages individual experience, skills, and connection to make the Amandla Olwazi – the Power of Knowledge a great success
  5. Engaging diverse Black community members with Afrocentric knowledge products and mobilization events to address the impact of anti-Black racism

The project aims to reduce the impact of anti-Black racism on the mental health and well-being of Black communities, build a strong network of diverse Black communities at a national level for Self Determination, and impact policies and practices on issues related to the mental health and well-being of Black Canadians through continuous Afrocentric values and principles.

TAIBU used its existing national and local networking to gather and synthesize knowledge, and develop the knowledge products including Ongoing community engagement and conversation, conducting literature reviews, and hosting events such as the ACT Now! National Black Mental Health and Wellness Conference.

These resources will be made available to Black communities across Canada through various channels. TAIBU also believes that these tools will provide timely and reliable information to Black communities and mainstream society in Canada and beyond to reduce the evolving issues around mental health and well-being.

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