(UNIONDALE, N.Y.) - In observance of July as Minority Mental Health Month, Nassau County Legislator Viviana L. Russell (D – Westbury) hosted a Minority Mental Health Community Fireside Chat at the Van Ness Fire Station in Uniondale on Monday, July 27.
Featured panelists included marriage and family therapist Dr. Phyllis Carter, LCMFT; Daniel Lloyd, CEO of Minority Millennials; Glenda Momrelle-Clarke, LMHC, founder of Soul Discovery; and Karl Telemaque, LMSW, of SouthEnd Psychiatry.
The evening opened with interns Nazirah Miller and Nathaniel Miller welcoming guests and setting the tone for the fireside chat. Attended by approximately 40 community members, the wide-ranging discussion explored the intersection of faith and mental health, strategies for breaking cycles of generational trauma, the importance of culturally competent mental health care, and ways to reduce the stigma that too often prevents individuals from seeking the support they need. Panelists also examined the unique pressures many people in minority communities face while balancing careers, family responsibilities, caregiving, leadership, faith, and community expectations.
"Too many people grow up hearing messages like, 'Be strong,' 'Pray about it,' or 'Don't tell people your business.' While faith and resilience are powerful, they should never prevent us from seeking healing, support, or connection," Legislator Russell said. "Our goal was to create a safe space where honest conversations could take place, stigma could be challenged, and people could leave knowing they are seen, heard, valued, and never alone. I am deeply grateful to our outstanding panelists for sharing their expertise and lived experiences, and to everyone who joined us for an evening of meaningful dialogue, education, healing, and community connection. Together, we can continue building communities where seeking help is viewed not as a sign of weakness, but as an act of strength."
PHOTO CREDITS – Photos by Chris Portuondodesmith