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Breaking Barriers: The First Black Therapeutic Business

  • Writer: William West
    William West
  • Aug 5, 2023
  • 2 min read

Dr. Janet Taylor, a psychiatrist, founded the first Black therapeutic business, Totally Me, in Harlem, New York. The business aimed to provide mental health services to the Black community and create a safe space where Black individuals could receive quality care without fear of judgment or discrimination[1]. Totally Me offered a range of services, including individual and group therapy, medication management, and support groups. The establishment of Totally Me was a significant milestone in the field of mental health, as it was the first Black therapeutic business. The business was created to address the lack of access to quality mental health services for Black Americans. Dr. Taylor's goal was to create a safe space where Black people could receive quality mental health services without fear of judgment or discrimination[1].


The establishment of Totally Me paved the way for future Black mental health professionals to provide quality mental health services to the Black community. Today, there are many Black mental health professionals and organizations that provide mental health services to the Black community, such as Therapy for Black Girls and Viva Wellness[4]. These organizations offer guidance on how Black business owners can maintain their mental health and provide culturally responsive therapy for Black men and women[3].


It is important to have Black mental health professionals who understand the unique experiences of Black Americans. Person-centered therapy is one approach that has been found to be effective for Black men and women[3]. This approach is rooted in an equal client-therapist relationship, making this congruence a necessary condition for success.


In conclusion, the establishment of the first Black therapeutic business, Totally Me, by Dr. Janet Taylor marked a significant milestone in the field of mental health. It provided a safe space for the Black community to access quality mental health services. The establishment of Totally Me paved the way for future generations of Black mental health professionals to provide quality mental health services to the Black community.


Sources





[4] Bloom Season | Therapy for Black Entrepreneurs - Mailchimp https://mailchimp.com/bloomseason/being/therapy-for-black-entrepreneurs/


[5] Mental Health - Black Psychiatrists https://blackpsychiatristsny.org/mental-health/

[6] Black Folks and Mental Health:Why Do We Suffer in Silence? https://www.ebony.com/black-folks-and-mental-health-610/

 
 
 

"Honoring the Legacy: Black Human Rights Activists Who Shaped History"

  • Writer: William West
    William West
  • Jul 24, 2023
  • 2 min read

In this final blog post, we take a moment to reflect on the remarkable contributions of various Black human rights activists throughout history. From the trailblazing efforts of Shirley Chisholm and the Little Rock Nine to the enduring legacies of Malcolm X and Rosa Parks, we pay tribute to the indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication of these change-makers. Their activism continues to inspire and shape the pursuit of justice and equality for all.


1. Empowering Communities: Shirley Chisholm and the Little Rock Nine

- The courageous endeavors of Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman in Congress, and the Little Rock Nine, who integrated an all-white school, empowered communities and demonstrated the power of perseverance in the face of adversity. Their contributions laid the groundwork for greater representation and educational opportunities for marginalized groups.


2. Advocating for Rights: Malcolm X and Rosa Parks

- Malcolm X's unyielding advocacy for Black empowerment and cultural pride, coupled with Rosa Parks' resolute stand against segregation, symbolized the fight for civil rights. Their actions have inspired countless activists to challenge systemic racism and fight for justice on a global scale.


3. Building Bridges: The Legacy of the Little Rock Nine

- The bravery of the Little Rock Nine not only changed the landscape of education in the United States but also showcased the potential of building bridges across racial divides. Their pursuit of a fair and just education system remains a testament to the power of education as a tool for societal progress.


4. The Intersectionality of Activism

- The contributions of these activists demonstrate the intersectionality of human rights activism, where the fight for racial equality intersects with gender, education, and socioeconomic disparities. Their work exemplifies the interconnectedness of various struggles for justice.


Conclusion:

As we remember and honor these Black human rights activists, let us carry their legacies forward with a renewed commitment to dismantling systemic injustices and creating a more equitable world. The courage, resilience, and passion exhibited by these change-makers serve as an enduring reminder of the power of individuals to effect transformative change in society. By continuing their work and advocating for human rights and equality, we can build upon their legacy and strive towards a more just and inclusive future for all. Let us be inspired by their stories and embark on our own journeys of activism and advocacy, standing shoulder to shoulder to make a lasting impact on the world around us.


Sources


[2] THE REBELLIOUS LIFE OF MRS. ROSA PARKS https://edisciplinas.usp.br/mod/resource/view.php?id=4066860





 
 
 

The Resilience of the Little Rock Nine

  • Writer: William West
    William West
  • Jul 24, 2023
  • 2 min read

In this blog post, we pay tribute to the courage and resilience of the Little Rock Nine, a group of African American students who faced tremendous adversity and racial hostility while integrating Little Rock Central High School in 1957. We'll delve into their unwavering determination, the support they received, and the significant impact their actions had on the fight for desegregation.


The Courageous Trailblazers


The Little Rock Nine were pioneers in the civil rights movement, bravely stepping forward to break down racial barriers in education. Their determination to attend an all-white school despite the risks was a turning point in the struggle for desegregation. They were Melba Pattillo Beals, Minnijean Brown, Elizabeth Eckford, Ernest Green, Thelma Mothershed, Terrence Roberts, Jefferson Thomas, Carlotta Walls, and Gloria Ray Karlmark.


Facing Adversity


The Little Rock Nine endured violent opposition from segregationist mobs and resistance from some state officials who sought to block their entry into the school. Their resilience in the face of such hostility became a symbol of the fight for equal rights. They were spat on, threatened, and physically attacked. They were harassed and bullied by their white classmates and teachers. They were escorted to and from school by the Arkansas National Guard.


Federal Intervention and Support


In response to the violence and obstruction faced by the Little Rock Nine, President Dwight D. Eisenhower deployed federal troops to protect the students and ensure their access to education. This marked a significant federal intervention in enforcing desegregation. The Little Rock Nine's bravery and the federal government's intervention led to the eventual integration of Little Rock Central High School.


Continuing Impact


The bravery of the Little Rock Nine sparked national attention and inspired more activism in the civil rights movement. Their actions led to further legal efforts and changes in school desegregation policies across the country. Their courage and determination paved the way for future generations to fight for equality and justice.


Empowering Future Generations


The Little Rock Nine's courageous stand serves as a reminder of the power of youth activism and the importance of education in fostering empathy and understanding across racial lines. Their legacy continues to inspire new generations to advocate for racial equality and justice. They are a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of activism.


In conclusion, the Little Rock Nine's story is a testament to the power of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Their bravery and unwavering commitment to justice and equality serve as an inspiration to us all. As we honor their legacies, let us recommit ourselves to advancing the cause of human rights and social justice in our own time.


Sources



[2] 50 years later: remembering the courage of Little Rock Nine https://progressive.org/op-eds/50-years-later-remembering-courage-little-rock-nine/





 
 
 

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