Celebrating Black History Month: health, wellness, and culture

This month, we look at health and education resources, as well as local venues celebrating African American culture.

February is Black History Month. We at the Employee Assistance Program want to take this opportunity to explore issues and resources that impact the African American community, as well as local City events celebrating Black History. As always, discussing these topics openly with colleagues, family, and friends helps to build understanding and awareness. To learn more this month, check out the following links:

This article from the National Association for Mental Illness focuses on many factors that impact African Americans in the world of mental health. It gives excellent suggestions on seeking culturally competent mental health clinicians and doctors.
This US Department of Health and Human Services publication targeted to African Americans gives helpful information and an overview of common heart diseases and symptoms.
Studies show the African American community is disproportionately at higher risk of Diabetes type 2 and the associated complications. You can read online about how to lower the risk of Diabetes through preventative health care and dietary choices.
This aggregate site showcases different community events, free and paid, celebrating Black History Month.
Every year the freedom trail foundation offers the African American Patriots tour. The tour takes place on Saturdays and Sundays in February at 12:45 p.m.
In Roxbury, you can visit the Museum of the National Center of Afro-American Artists. It's open Tuesday through Sunday, from 1 - 5 p.m. Group tours are available upon request. As of February 4, 2019, the museum website is experiencing technical issues. Please call 617-442-8614 for more information about the museum and its tours.

If you are aware of any additional programs, helpful resources, or activities that celebrate Black History Month, please let us know!