Baystate to Celebrate Juneteenth with Virtual Programs

SPRINGFIELD – Baystate Health will commemorate Juneteenth — the nationally celebrated commemoration of the legal emancipation of Black enslaved people in the United States — with a week-long virtual information session entitled “Black Health, Well-Being and Healing” beginning June 13.

The weeklong event is organized by Black Employees Connecting (BEC), the Office of Diversity & Inclusion, the Office of Government & Community Relations and Health New England. All events are free and open to the community.

Topics will include:

Black Men’s Health: An In-Depth Look on Well-Being and Healing (June 13, 12-1:30 p.m.):A virtual panel discussion on the physical and mental health of Black men, their unique concerns and experiences in healthcare, and what Black health and wellness means to the panelists.

My Purpose, My Calling: Career Exploration at Baystate Health (June 14, 12-1:30 p.m.): Explore employment opportunities at Baystate Health, find out what it takes to pursue a successful healthcare career, and hear personal stories from a virtual panel of employees on their journeys in healthcare. 

Black Child & Adolescent Behavioral & Mental Health: The Impact as the Pandemic Continues (June 15, 5:30-6:45 p.m.): An informative panel discussion about the specific and unique behavioral and mental health challenges faced by Black children and adolescents as the pandemic continues. Panelists will also discuss access to care and future pathways to protect Black youth.

Black Women’s Health: Amplifying Our Voices for a Better Future (June 16, 12-1:30 p.m.): A virtual panel discussion on common issues in OB/GYN, primary care and mental health for Black women; sharing tips on self advocacy, and available resources through Baystate Health for Black women.

Black Faith, Culture & Health: The Importance of Faith in Healing and Wellness (June 17, 10-11:30 a.m.): A virtual morning with the Reverend Dr. Terrlyn Curry Avery where participants will explore the intersection of faith and medicine, and how faith and religion have an impact on Black health.

To register for any of the free sessions, visit https://www.baystatehealth.org/about-us/calendar/diversity-inclusion/juneteenth.

For more information on Baystate Health, visit baystatehealth.org.