GRAAHI CARES – GRAAHI

Raising Awareness: Addressing the crisis of Black Maternal and Infant health Disparities

April 18, 2024April 18, 2024 by Vanessa Greene

By Vanessa Greene, CEO, GRAAHI

In the landscape of maternal and infant health in the United States, there exists a profound and persistent disparity that demands our attention: the disproportionate rates of mortality and morbidity among Black mothers and infants. Despite advances in medical technology and healthcare access, Black women are still two to three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes and experience higher rates of pregnancy-related complications such as pre-eclampsia, eclampsia, and gestational diabetes than white women, and Black infants are more than twice as likely to be born prematurely and with low birth weights, factors that significantly increase their risk of mortality and long-term health challenges. Additionally, Black babies are twice as likely to die before their first birthday compared to White babies. These statistics paint a stark picture of the obstacles Black mothers and infants face in achieving optimal health outcomes.

The roots of this crisis run deep, intertwining historical injustices, socioeconomic factors, and systemic racism. From the legacy of slavery and Jim Crow laws to ongoing discrimination in healthcare settings, Black individuals have faced barriers to accessing quality care and have been subject to unequal treatment within the medical system.

Policy initiatives at the federal, state, and local levels are essential for driving systemic change. In the pursuit of equitable maternal healthcare, the roles of Black Birth Workers and Midwives are increasingly recognized as pivotal in improving birth outcomes. Through education, emotional support, and empowerment, doulas and midwives help Black mothers reclaim agency over their bodies and births, navigate the complexities of pregnancy and childbirth, and develop a sense of empowerment and self-efficacy. Thus, Black women who receive care from Doulas and Midwives experience lower rates of preterm birth and low birth weight infants, due to the personalized care and support they provide.

In recent years, there has been growing recognition of the urgency to address Black maternal and infant health disparities. Advocacy groups, healthcare organizations, and policymakers are increasingly mobilizing to develop solutions and advocate for equity in healthcare delivery. However, meaningful progress will require sustained commitment, resources, and collaboration across sectors. Continuous investment in and expanding access to doulas and midwifery care is essential for advancing equity in maternal healthcare and ensuring that all Black mothers receive the support and respect they deserve.

Mindful of the data and the growing disparities GRAAHI has committed itself to take seriously our responsibility to black birth givers in Grand Rapids in particular. We have been collaborating with community partners to introduce the concept of a birth plan to expectant parents as the first step to exercising agency over one’s birthing process. We continue to send our staff and provide resources for others in our community to become birth and breastfeeding doulas to elevate the voice of the birth giver and provide evidence-based information. We have incorporated a doula and midwife track to our Pathways Workforce Development Initiative to increase diverse leaders in the healthcare sector and another level of support to Black birth givers. We have also implemented a multidisciplinary Maternal Infant Health Task Force to develop specific, actionable, and measurable targets to significantly reduce mortality rates among Black mothers and babies.

Ultimately, achieving equity in maternal and infant health is not just a matter of improving healthcare access; it is a moral imperative and a reflection of our society’s values for life. By dismantling systemic barriers, confronting institutional racism, and prioritizing the well-being of Black mothers and infants, we can work towards a future where race and socioeconomic status is not a predictor of health outcomes.

Unlocking the Power of Mental Exercise: A Guide for African Americans with Sickle Cell Disease

October 26, 2023 by GRAAHI Editorial

Living with sickle cell disease can present unique challenges for African Americans. The physical symptoms and complications associated with the condition can take a toll on both the body and mind. While physical exercise is often emphasized for managing the disease, the power of mental exercise should not be overlooked. In this article, we will explore the importance of mental exercise for African Americans with sickle cell disease and how it can empower individuals to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives.

Benefits of mental exercise for African Americans with sickle cell disease

Mental exercise offers numerous benefits for individuals living with sickle cell disease. Firstly, it helps to alleviate stress and anxiety, which are common among sickle cell patients. By engaging in activities that require focus and concentration, individuals can experience a sense of calm and relaxation. Secondly, mental exercise can improve memory and

The importance of mental exercise for sickle cell patients

Sickle cell disease not only affects the physical well-being of individuals, but it can also impact their mental health. The constant pain, fatigue, and limitations can lead to feelings of frustration, anxiety, and depression. This is where mental exercise plays a crucial role. Engaging in activities that stimulate the mind, such as puzzles, reading, or learning new skills, can help divert attention from the physical discomfort and provide a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment. Mental exercise can improve cognitive function, boost mood, and enhance overall well-being for African Americans with sickle cell. Regular engagement in mentally stimulating activities can help sharpen the mind and promote mental agility. Lastly, mental exercise promotes a positive mindset and enhances overall well-being. It provides a sense of purpose and accomplishment, boosting self-esteem and confidence.

Types of mental exercises

There are various types of mental exercises that can be beneficial for African Americans with sickle cell. One popular option is solving puzzles, such as crosswords, Sudoku, or word searches. These activities challenge the brain and improve problem-solving skills. Another option is reading. Whether it’s books, magazines, or online articles, reading stimulates the mind. Learning new skills, such as playing a musical instrument, painting, or cooking, is also an excellent way to engage the mind and nurture creativity. Lastly, meditation and mindfulness exercises can help promote a sense of calm and well-being.

Incorporating mental exercise into daily routine

Incorporating mental exercise into the daily routine is crucial for sickle cell management. It is essential to set aside dedicated time for mental stimulation. This can be done by scheduling specific activities – at least one a day. Variety is key! Be adventurous in trying new things.

Effective mental exercises Tips:

Start with manageable activities: Begin with activities that are enjoyable and not too challenging. This will help build confidence and motivation.
Vary the activities: Engage in a variety of mental exercises to keep the mind stimulated and prevent boredom. Mix puzzles,
reading, and learning new skills for a well-rounded mental exercise routine.
Take breaks when needed: It is important to listen to the body and take breaks when necessary. Pushing through fatigue or pain can hinder the effectiveness of mental exercise..
Stay consistent: Consistency is key for reaping the benefits of mental exercise. Set realistic goals and commit to regular practice.

Empowering African Americans with sickle cell disease through mental exercise Mental exercise is a powerful tool for African Americans living with sickle cell disease. By engaging in activities that stimulate the mind, individuals can experience numerous benefits, including reduced stress, improved cognitive function, and enhanced overall well-being. It is crucial for sickle cell patients to incorporate mental exercise into their daily routines and seek support services that focus on mental health. By unlocking the power of mental exercise, African Americans with sickle cell can empower themselves to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.

Resources and Support for mental exercise for African Americans with sickle cell disease Fortunately, there are various mental health resources available for sickle cell patients to address their unique needs. Mental health professionals, such as psychologists and psychiatrists, provide therapy, counseling, and psychiatric evaluations to help with emotional distress, depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. Engaging in support groups tailored specifically for sickle cell patients can be immensely beneficial as they create a sense of community and understanding among individuals facing similar challenges. The internet has greatly expanded access to mental health resources and support, including virtual chats and forums. Many hospitals and medical centers now recognize the importance of mental health support for sickle cell patients and have integrated mental health services into their care plans.

Remember, it is crucial to prioritize mental health support alongside the physical aspect of sickle cell disease to ensure holistic and effective sickle cell care/management!

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month: The Importance of Breast Screening for Women of Color

October 17, 2023 by Barbara Lash

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, and it can affect anyone at any age. However, women of color are at an increased risk of developing breast cancer and dying from the disease.

Statistics on Breast Cancer Rates Among Women of Color

Black women have a 40% higher death rate from breast cancer than white women, even though their incidence rate is slightly lower.
Hispanic women are more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer at a later stage than white women.
Asian women have the lowest incidence rate of breast cancer but are more likely to be diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, which is a more aggressive form of the disease.

Why is Early Detection of Breast Cancer Important?

Early detection of breast cancer is essential for improving survival rates. When breast cancer is found early, it is more treatable and has a better prognosis.

How Does Breast Screening Work?

Breast screening is a series of tests that are used to detect breast cancer early. The most common breast screening tests are mammograms and clinical breast exams.

Mammograms are low-dose X-rays of the breast that can show changes in the breast tissue that may be cancer.
Clinical breast exams are physical exams of the breasts that are performed by a healthcare provider.

Breast Screening for Women of Color

Women of color should talk to their healthcare provider about their individual risk of breast cancer and develop a breast screening plan that is right for them. Some experts recommend that black women start getting mammograms at age 40, instead of the standard age of 50.

Breast Screening Event in Grand Rapids, Michigan

On October 25th, 2023, from 9am to 3pm, there will be a breast screening event at Pilgrim Rest MBC in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The event will feature the mobile mammogram unit from Trinity Health Michigan.

To schedule an appointment for a mammogram at the event, go to https://www.trinityhealthmichigan.org/classes-and-events/mobile-mammography-unit or call 855-559-7179 (Request Mobile Unit > Grand Rapids > Preferred Date & Time)

CROWN Act approved, led by Black Leadership Advisory Council

June 20, 2023 by Barbara Lash

GRAAHI’s director of research, Andrae Ivy serves on the board of the Black Leadership Advisory Council (BLAC). At GRAAHI we’re proud to join with BLAC in order to support legislation to break down systemic barriers. Read the full news provided by BLAC, and click HERE to read more about the organization and the 11 recommendations they have made to the State of Michigan.

Members of the Black Leadership Advisory Council (BLAC) joined Gov. Whitmer, Lt. Gov. Gilchrist and Sen. Sarah Anthony to celebrate the signing of the CROWN (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural hair) Act, which bans hair discrimination and removes barriers to Black Michiganders achieving economic prosperity.

“I am proud to sign … bipartisan legislation alongside Senator Anthony to end hair discrimination in Michigan,” said Governor Whitmer. “The CROWN Act will address hair discrimination Black Michiganders face at work, at school, and elsewhere. Black Michiganders must be able to wear their natural hairstyles however they choose and not feel forced to change or straighten their hair for interviews, work, or school. We know that 44% of Black women under the age of 34 have felt this kind of discrimination before and I am proud that we are taking an important step forward today to make our state more equitable and just. Let’s keep working together on our comprehensive Make it in Michigan vision to build a state where every Michigander can work, live, and raise a family.”

Read and share Gov. Whitmer’s press release.

Black Leadership Advisory Council Support & Recommendations

The CROWN Act was one of 11 policy recommendations BLAC offered to Gov. Whitmer in their 2022 report based on subject expert presentations and other forms of research and analysis.

“From bias in job recruitment to natural hairstyles being restricted in schools, our community is subjected to race-based discrimination every day, and the CROWN Act shows Black Michiganders – and the world – that we deserve equal opportunities and the freedom to show up as our most authentic selves,” said BLAC co-chair Dr. Donna Bell. “We applaud Gov. Whitmer and the legislature for bringing the CROWN Act to Michigan and banning hair discrimination in our state.”

“Following my work with Kent County to pass local policies to ban race-based hair discrimination, I am overjoyed to know all Black Michiganders will now receive these protections,” said BLAC co-chair Robert Womack. “The Black Leadership Advisory Council applauds our state leaders for passing this meaningful legislation and adding Michigan to the growing list of partners in this national movement.”

The Wisdom of a Healthy Heart

March 2, 2023 by Ashlie Jones

By: Ashlie Jones, Health Initiatives & Community Engagement Manager

In less than two months into 2023, African Americans have had several history making events. Actress Viola Davis joins the ranks as the newest recipient of an EGOT status;Lebron James solidified himself as the NBA’s All-Time Leading Scorer highest scorer; and songstress Beyonce Knowles-Carter with an all-time record for most GRAMMY wins. It is easy to say that we are off to a great start and each of them have secured their space in Black History.

In addition to Black History Month, February is also known as American Heart Month, focusing on cardiovascular health and raising awareness about heart disease. This month is earmarked by events such as “National Wear Red Day” which brings greater attention to heart disease as a leading cause of death for Americans, especially African Americans.

According to the U.S Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health, In 2019, African Americans were 24 percent less likely to die from heart disease than non-Hispanic whites. Although African American adults are 20 percent more likely to have high blood pressure, they are less likely than non-Hispanic whites to have their blood pressure under control. African American women are nearly 60 percent more likely to have high blood pressure, as compared to non-Hispanic white women. Those statistics were already troubling before the onset of a global pandemic. So, one can imagine just how much more important education and awareness would be today.

On January 24, 2023, when Damar Hamlin, the 24-year-old football player for the Buffalo Bills had a heart attack after a tackle, millions watched and prayed as medical workers performed CPR and used an automated external defibrillator to restore his heartbeat. Fortunately, he appears to be recovering well. This prompted many communities to pay more attention to heart disease.

Knowing and understanding the importance of such education, the Grand Rapids African American Health Institute (GRAAHI) had the pleasure of partnering with First AME Church and their Abundant Living Ministry to present on the topic of Heart Disease to an audience ranging from 60 to over 90 years of age. With an intimate but engaged group of senior citizens, the conversation organically evolved beginning with an “out of the box” ice breaker. “ What is your superpower and how can it be used to heal a heart?” Very quickly voices began to ring out from all over the room with various responses like “my laughter”, “my empathy”, and one gentleman jokingly mentioning his “completion of my wife’s honey-do list”. The facilitator used these moments as ways to teach how laughter helps to decrease stress, completing household activities increases heart rate and keeps the body moving. All directly impacting the heart and its vulnerability to heart disease.

Research shows that several health conditions, including your lifestyle, age, and family history can increase your risk for heart disease. According to the Center for Disease Control, about half of all Americans (47%) have at least 1 of 3 key risk factors for heart disease: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking. The challenge is that some of these risk factors, such as your age and genetics, can not be controlled. But intentional steps can be taken to lower your risk of heart disease by changing the factors you can control.

One of those major risk factors is STRESS!!! Did you know that African-American women are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of race-related stress? Furthermore, stress can cause arteries to narrow, make it harder to lose weight and raise blood pressure. These criteria immediately put one at risk for heart attack, even at a young age.

As the conversation continued, the wisdom of the cornerstones of our community began to flow liberally. They shared ways the younger generations could take action to reduce stress. They spoke of breathing techniques, exercise, journaling, talking and laughing with friends, getting outdoors. One participant very firmly expressed “ Learn to slow down and learn to just say NO! You can’t do everything all the time. Pace yourself, you’ll live longer” Now if that is not wisdom, I don’t know what would qualify.

Participants of the Abundant Living group excitedly shared their wisdom and triumphs in making intentional changes to their diets, exercise routines, stress management, activities and self-care practices. All of which can dramatically reduce risks for heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and other diseases that severely impact the African American community. The joy and excitement in the room was palpable as the group witnessed exercise demonstrations and received low impact exercise equipment.

At the conclusion of the session one participant stated “I almost stayed home today because it was cold, but I’m glad I came. My heart would have never been this warm at home alone!” I believe it is safe to say that this event was good for every heart in the room. Some ways to reduce risk of heart disease include, healthy eating, exercising and staying active; managing stress; and keeping your blood pressure and cholesterol under control and if you have any signs of illness, get checked out immediately.

For more information about GRAAHI, go to www.graahi.org.

Get Your Heart Pumping and Move Your Body in this FREE Class.

February 17, 2023 by GRAAHI Editorial

GRAAHI and the Grand Rapids Black Nurses Association are hosting a FREE 40-minute community workout circuit at The Other Body Fitness Gym. During this event, you will learn how 30 minutes of exercise a day can help maintain a healthy weight, reduce stress levels, and decrease your chances of heart disease later in life.

The details for this event are :

Location: The Other Body Fitness Gym – 3949 28th Street SE Grand Rapids, MI 49512
Time: 3:00pm – 4:30pm
Services: Heart Healthy presentation followed by a 40 min circuit workout (for beginners). NO PRIOR WORKOUT EXPERIENCE NEEDED. All participants must be 18+ to participate.

Please note that this event has the capacity for 15 participants. We will review submissions on a first come first basis and will reach out to you once your spot is confirmed.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfbtdRfVFmwW8lLb7kaGTFQBqBLQNZrpyMVoldCb_QGFkfoyQ/viewform

Seeing themselves in the doctor’s coat

February 16, 2023 by GRAAHI Editorial

Health Careers Club introduces elementary students of color to occupations

By Erin Albanese February 15, 2023 | School News Network

*Students engage in conversation and an activity arranging certain food on a plate with Kent County registered dietitians*

Third-grader Alfredo Rajas examined clues as to why people were falling ill with respiratory symptoms in Milwaukee and Chicago.

“Fifteen people have been visiting the emergency room and have been having trouble breathing lately,” he said, catching on quickly to the role of a health investigator. “They have fevers and other stuff that make them feel really bad.”

Brandi Berry, program supervisor for the Kent County Health Department, explained what that could mean.

“When you have more than three people with the same symptoms, you have the potential for an outbreak,” she said.

A group of Stocking Elementary students were playing a game with Berry to introduce them to careers in public health, one of several health care fields they are learning about this school year as part of Pathways to Healthcare Careers, a program offered by the Grand Rapids African American Health Institute.

*From left, students Janelle Whitley and Amarianna Richards listen to details of a simulated outbreak*

The game, Solve the Outbreak, on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website, presents information and clues, and demonstrates how “disease detectives” investigate outbreaks.

“The Health Department helps everybody,” Berry told students. “We make sure that you have clean water, that the air is good. We make sure everybody gets their shots and that you’re healthy.”

‘We want students to see themselves in the doctor’s coat.’
— Stacey Baker, program coordinator for Grand Rapids African American Health Institute

But, she explained, some things that affect people’s health, like COVID-19, require investigation because they are dangerous. That is the role of a health investigator.

“Outbreaks happen in the world. We just had an outbreak – COVID. When something like that happens it can be very dangerous. We don’t want outbreaks.”

*Third-grader Alfredo Rajas talks through clues in the game ‘Solve the Outbreak’*

Brandi Berry, the program supervisor for the Kent County Health Department, introduces students to public health
careers.

Students spend an hour every Monday in Pathways and have learned about occupational therapy, phlebotomy, dietetics and nursing by meeting professionals and getting to see and touch equipment.

The goal is to expose children of color to health care careers while helping boost their academics, said Stacey Baker, program coordinator for GRAAHI.

“We want students to see themselves in the doctor’s coat or in the shoes of other health care professionals,” Baker said. “We want them to see a variety of health care occupations to grow and expand their knowledge base.”

People of color are drastically under-represented within the healthcare field, he said. According to 2017 and 2019 data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the National Center for Health Workforce Analysis, whites make up the majority of the U.S. medical workforce, at 64.4 percent; compared to Hispanics, at 16.1 percent; Blacks or African Americans, at 11.6 percent; and Asians, at 5.3 percent.

Having people of color in healthcare professions improves outcomes as well, Baker said. “Studies have found that when patients of color see health care workers of color they tend to do better in terms of their health overall.

Pathways pairs academic tutoring in reading and math — through Sylvan Learning — with the career presentations, equipping students with academic skills to eventually pursue careers. Baker said that’s an important piece to the program.

“They need to be academically proficient in terms of the sciences.”

The program is also offered at Grand Rapids University Preparatory Academy, a middle and high school, and Ottawa Hills High School. Along with seeing health care professionals in action, the high school program involves tours of college campuses and program visits.

*Donovan Jones takes part in the investigation*

Inspiring Young People

By using their sleuthing skills in the game, Stocking students figured out that the outbreak was caused by anthrax. A musician who visited Africa had returned with the deadly bacteria on his drums. When he played at a concert in Chicago, beating the drums caused the anthrax spores to disperse in the air and infect the audience.

Alfredo enjoyed the investigation and said he’d like to be a health investigator one day.

“The research — you get to find out clues — it’s like a scavenger hunt,” he said. “I want to keep the community safe and I don’t want anyone to get a bad illness.”

Learn more about Pathways at graahi.com/education.

Grant expands GRAAHI’s power to eliminate health disparities

February 2, 2023 by GRAAHI Editorial

ESTELLE SLOOTMAKER | MONDAY, JANUARY 30, 2023

Thanks to a $1 million American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant awarded by Kent County, the Grand Rapids African American Health Institute (GRAAHI) will expand and enhance programming aimed at reducing health disparities within the county’s BIPOC communities. Founded in 2002 in reaction to a Kent County Health Department community needs assessment, the grassroots organization has leveraged community input and collaborations with other organizations to address disturbing racial disparities in maternal and infant mortality, diabetes, access to mental and medical health care and more.

“That survey showed daunting, glaring disparities — more than the community had anticipated,” says Vanessa Greene, GRAAHI CEO. “Disparities are not just a result of treatment experiences. Eighty percent of health disparities are a result of social determinants — where people live, which determines where they go to school, and then that determines their ability to access resources and higher education, which then informs what type of job they’re going to get. The type of employment determines what type of health insurance that they have.”

Some of the grant money will help fund GRAAHI’s health navigator programs, which focus on maternal infant health and mental health. GRAAHI’s mental health navigators aim to connect at least 500 African Americans with mental health services to address needs exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Navigators working with expectant mothers aim to reduce BIPOC maternal and infant mortality and morbidity. A 2020 Kent County Community Needs Assessment found that nearly twice as many Black babies here died in their first year of life than white babies (8.1 per 1,000 compared to 4.5 per 1,000 live births). Similar disparities exist across the U.S. Research has determined that racism-induced stress is a major root cause.

“We still have mothers who are not highly engaged in prenatal care, who don’t have the comfort level [with their provider],” Greene says. “Community health navigators help them through that process and walk alongside them. We want to be really intentional about supporting pregnant women and making sure that they understand every stage of their pregnancy and have the resources to help them navigate that process.”

The grant will also expand GRAAHI’s Pathways to Healthcare Careers program, which seeks to increase underrepresented students in health care professions.
Launched in Grand Rapids Public Schools in fall 2022 at Stocking Elementary and UPrep Middle and High Schools, Pathways connects educators, healthcare professionals, academic tutors and mentors with students during after-school sessions. Additional Pathways pilot programs are being developed with Grand Rapids Community College, Davenport University, Ferris State University, Michigan State University and Grand Valley State University as well as with three Grand Rapids area hospitals — Spectrum Health Butterworth, Trinity Health Saint Mary’s and University of Michigan Health-West.

“When people come in, it’s important for them to see faces that look like them,” Greene says. “Having increasing diversity in the health care sector is important for [those working in health care to understand] how cultural relevance and affirming treatment impacts the overall attitude and trust level of the patient. The other factor, COVID, created a lot of shifts in terms of people leaving the health care system. There’s a shortage in almost every [health care] field.”

GRAAHI also plans on expanding its Restoring Health program that serves Kent County’s older adults who were adversely impacted by COVID-19 and now face deteriorating health due to chronic conditions, poor nutrition, lack of physical activity, or social isolation. In addition, GRAAHI plans to enlist more than 100 repeat blood donors to help sickle cell patients survive that disease, which is prominent within the Black community.

“We’re nowhere close to achieving all of our goals, but we are really excited about the strides that we’re making and the systems that we have in place,” Greene concludes. “We do anticipate seeing even greater results and impact with this funding we’re receiving from the county.”

Written by Estelle Slootmaker, Development News Editor
Photos courtesy GRAAHI

Article is copied from Rapid Growth Media – https://www.rapidgrowthmedia.com/devnews/0130graahi.aspx

The Brutal Death of Tyre Nichols and the cumulative effects of police brutality and trauma on the Black community

February 27, 2023February 2, 2023 by GRAAHI Editorial

Andrae Ivy, MPH | GRAAHI’s Director of Research | February 2023

On January 27th of 2023, the world watched yet again as a Black man named Tyre Nichols was viciously beaten and harassed by a group of police officers in Memphis, TN. The images, words and violence in this video were terrifying to watch, as the officers seemed determined to end this

young man’s life following a routine traffic stop. After being violently punched, kicked and tasered, Mr. Nichols would eventually slump to the ground, blood running down the side of his swollen and distorted face onto the cold pavement. The officers showed no signs of treating Mr. Nichols like a human being before, during or after the attack, as they casually shared excuses and lies to justify their violence. The grotesque injuries Mr. Nichols suffered from the beating can also be viewed, as he laid lifeless in a Memphis hospital room with a face reminiscent of Emmett Till’s. Unfortunately, Mr. Nichols would eventually succumb to his injuries and lose his life three days later. Upon release of the video, five of the officers involved in the incident were fired. That following Monday on January 30th, a sixth officer was fired in connection with the beating. This traumatic event is all too familiar for Blacks or African Americans who are often reminded of their fragile and devalued nature in the face of police officers. Blacks are tired of this state-sanctioned treatment and need tangible protections and anti-hate policies to prevent such attacks from reoccurring.

From Rodney King to Sandra Bland to George Floyd to Breonna Taylor to Tamir Rice to Atatiana Jefferson to Patrick Lyoya and so many others, the deaths of Blacks or African Americans in the presence of police officers are commonalities that plague the hearts and minds of not only the victims and their families, but also those who share a similar phenotype across the many cities and states in this country and across the world. According to Mapping Police Violence, Blacks in America are nearly three times more likely to be killed by police officers compared to whites, resulting in 254 Black deaths in 2022. In addition, this study found that 100 out of 100,000 Black men and boys will be killed by police officers during their lifetime compared to 39 white men and boys. Since Blacks as a whole collectively share the grief and trauma of these deaths, it’s important for Blacks and society to better understand the cumulative effects of these unethical actions on the mental, physical and emotional health of the entire Black population. Several studies have investigated the impact of traumatic events, such as police brutality and racism, on the overall wellbeing of Blacks. One study in 2018, led by Dr. David Williams, found that the killing of an unarmed Black person by a police officer resulted in many days of poor health for Blacks in that state for the next three months. Another study found that Blacks and other non-white groups were more likely to report police victimization, in which that victimization was significantly linked to psychological distress and depression. In a more robust study, researchers found that the constant threat of police violence, the actual acts of police brutality, and the aftermath of these events have a collective and “allostatic load” effect on the mental health of those victimized along with those who identify racially or culturally with said victims. In addition, this study also determined that the effects of police brutality mirror the effects of racism

occurring within many facets of society such as housing, education, employment and health care.

In this interesting study, Black drivers in America were nearly 20% more likely to be stopped by police officers and nearly twice as likely to be searched compared to their white counterparts. When being confronted by police officers, many Blacks run and flee, which is viewed by some as an indicator of guilt. Many Blacks know the history of this country and the unequal treatment with police officers and the justice system, even when no wrongdoing has occurred. In 2016, the Massachusetts (MA) Supreme Judicial Court showed support for this reality regarding a Black man in Boston who was wrongfully profiled during a police investigation. The MA Supreme Court stated, “The finding that Black males in Boston are disproportionately and repeatedly targeted for FIO [Field Interrogation and Observation] encounters suggests a reason for flight totally unrelated to consciousness of guilt. Such an individual, when approached by the police, might just as easily be motivated by the desire to avoid the recurring indignity of being racially profiled as by the desire to hide criminal activity.” This statement by the MA Supreme Court basically means that Black men running from police officers is understandable due to the fact that Black men are more likely to be racially profiled. Their statement also confers that some Black men simply run to escape the indignity of being racially profiled and a potential victim of police brutality, and that this shouldn’t indicate any form of guilt on their part. This is important to note when thinking about Tyre Nichols who decided to run in an attempt to reach his mother’s home, just sixty yards away. Unfortunately, he was unsuccessful.

Typically, police brutality against Blacks usually involves white officers. In Tyre Nichols’ case, the officers involved were mainly Black, indicating that Black officers can also possess and demonstrate hate, bias and prejudice towards Black life. Such behavior is repulsive no matter the person’s background, and justice should be served no matter the officer’s race. This fact reinforces calls to investigate police departments, unions and officers to determine their ability to serve and protect the community without bias, hate and prejudice. If not, more innocent lives will be lost. On another note, these acts of police brutality from some officers stain the image and reputation of all officers, even though this behavior isn’t indicative of all officers. Like many citizens, many police officers also expressed their dismay with the vile behavior displayed by the officers in Mr. Nichols’ case and many other cases of police brutality, showing that all officers can’t be blamed for the actions of some. The Grand Rapids African American Health Institute (GRAAHI) is dedicated to increasing health equity for Blacks or African Americans in the Grand Rapids community. These acts of violence against Black bodies impact our mental and physical health. We are deeply troubled by the death of Tyre Nichols and so many others. Even though these officers were swiftly charged, many systematic changes, such as anti-Black hate policies and protections, are needed to revamp and rebuild the justice system and the consciousness of Americans, so a person’s life isn’t deemed less valuable because of the color of their skin.

We at GRAAHI offer our sincerest thoughts and prayers to the family of Tyre Nichols.

Meaning in Colors – Holiday Pop Up Shop

December 8, 2022December 7, 2022 by Barbara Lash

Join us December 17th as we co-host a FREE Christmas shopping opportunity for families in need. In a time of residual and onging challenges with a pandemic and rising costs, we understand that creating an abundant holiday can be additional stress to your mental health. That’s why we are supporting Meaning in Colors in creating this fun community-centered shopping event. The heads of families can shop for their family members from a stock-pile of donated goods! No kids are allowed at the event as this is meant to be a suprise for them! (Hello Santa!)

Currently we are signing up families to shop at: FAMILY SIGN UP

We’re also inviting community members and organizations to donate new items to our shop. And we’d love to have additional hands on that day with friendly volunteers. To make a donation or volunteer, email us at: MIC.info@MeaningInColors.org

We’re honored to co-sponsor this event with Meaning in Colors, a local nonprofit that strives to support education and housing for our community members. Collaborations like this mean we’re tackling the social determinants that impact the health of our black and brown communities.

To read more go to:

https://www.meaningincolors.org/gift-giving-pop-up-shop

To support more programs like this, donate as you are able at: graahi.com/growth