July 2022: People of Color Mental Health Awareness Month

WHEREAS, stigmas and implicit biases surrounding mental health in the African American community and other communities of color affect the health and well-being of people of color in our state; and,

WHEREAS, health care professionals remain concerned about racial and cultural disparities that are still evident in the mental health treatment system in our nation, impacting life outcomes across the life span; and, 

WHEREAS, the mental health care workers recruited to serve the African American community and other people of color communities should reflect the population served; and,

WHEREAS, professional counselors encourage organizations and localities to eliminate barriers for professional counseling services for people of color in schools, colleges, mental health agencies, community agencies, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, private practice, and other delivery settings; and,

WHEREAS, an improved understanding of multicultural counseling and mental health for people of color will be beneficial to all; and,

WHEREAS, in 2020, I established a Task Force on Racial Disparities to tackle racial injustice in health care, including removing barriers to accessing mental health care; and,

WHEREAS, it is important to raise consciousness of the issues people of color face and build a stronger and more resilient community for all;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim July 2022 as People of Color Mental Health Awareness Month in Michigan.