Detroit – The African American Men’s Wellness Organization (AAMWA) successfully hosted the event “REAL MEN, REAL TALK: Focus on Mental Wellness for Black Men.” The event, which focused on addressing and improving the mental health of African American men, was held on Thursday, June 27, 2024 at the Henry Ford Detroit Pistons Performance Center in Detroit.
The “REAL MEN, REAL TALK” event brought together a diverse group of attendees, including community leaders, mental health professionals, and African American men from various walks of life. The goal of the event was to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health issues and encourage open and honest conversations about mental health.
Key highlights of the event include:
- Personal testimony: Participants shared their personal experiences with mental health, creating a supportive environment that fostered understanding and empathy.
- Interactive engagement: Participants stood shoulder to shoulder, men engaged in a dynamic music appreciation session. For two minutes, as lyrics played around the room, participants were instructed to connect hands and eyes with a fellow Black person, an embrace that gave them confidence and, for some, an uncomfortable moment of vulnerability. For some, it was the first time they had ever looked into the eyes of another Black man outside of a physical altercation. In another session, men were given costume-like masks and instructed to write on them who they thought they were, while also expressing their inner insecurities.
John H. Gregory, Founder, National AAMWA, highlighted the importance of the event, saying, “Mental health is a significant issue that affects many African-American men, yet it is often overlooked and stigmatized. ‘REAL MEN, REAL TALK’ is about changing that narrative, providing support and ensuring no one feels alone in their mental health journey.”
The event was well received, with many attendees expressing gratitude for the opportunity to discuss mental health in a safe and supportive environment.
“It’s time for my hometown of Detroit to join this national conversation with Black men coming together to take off their masks and live as their true selves,” said AAMWA President Kenny Hampton. “This session marks the beginning of the next 30-day onslaught in our community as our Black Male Lifesaving National Wellness Tour comes to Detroit, and I couldn’t be more excited to be here to help save lives, one free health screening at a time.”African American Men’s Wellness Organization (AAMWA) Presents “REAL MEN, REAL TALK”
Attendees James Tate, former Detroit Police Public Relations Chief and current Detroit City Council President Pro Tempore, shared his own experience with mental health. “The screams never stop,” Tate said of the grief of the families of crime victims. Tate spoke of the psychological and emotional pain he endured while working for the Detroit Police Department. The city councilman spoke about his involvement in Protect Your Crown Detroit, a study aimed at “understanding the true state of mental health in Detroit,” as well as attending and supporting AAMWA.
AAMWA hopes to continue its mission of promoting the overall health of African American men by fostering open dialogue and providing valuable resources.
This latest event prepares the organization for the highly anticipated Black Men’s Wellness Day, which will be held on Saturday, July 27, 2024 at 7 a.m. at Perfecting Church in Detroit.
For more information about AAMWA and upcoming events, visit aawellness.org
About AAMWA: The African American Male Wellness Agency is committed to eliminating health disparities for African American men and their families. Through a wide range of initiatives and community events, AA Wellness provides critical education and resources aimed at improving the overall health and wellness of the African American community.
