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When the System Pulls Back, Black Communities Pull Up

October 13, 2025

The Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective (BEAM) is addressing the dual challenges of public health crises and systemic racism affecting Black communities through grassroots mental health initiatives. In response to federal funding cuts for public health programs, BEAM has developed community-based approaches to healing centered around lived experiences and peer support. Their healing justice framework confronts generational trauma caused by systemic oppression while creating alternative care networks.

Who is affected

  • Black communities and individuals experiencing both racism and public health crises
  • Baltimore resident Aaliyah Nurideen and other BEAM training participants
  • Black people hesitant to seek traditional therapy due to historical and ongoing harm
  • Communities impacted by federal cuts to public health programs, including mental health and substance use prevention services

What action is being taken

  • BEAM is hosting virtual conversations like "When the System Pulls Back, We Pull Up: The Underground Wellness Network & The Future of Care"
  • BEAM is conducting Black Mental Health & Justice Immersion training sessions with reportedly high satisfaction rates
  • BEAM is implementing healing justice frameworks that address generational, individual, and collective trauma
  • BEAM is creating community-based care networks to fill gaps left by institutional withdrawal

Why it matters

  • Black communities face the dual burden of public health crises and systemic racism
  • Federal funding cuts are reducing access to essential mental health and substance use prevention programs
  • Traditional therapy and psychiatric systems have historically caused harm to Black communities
  • Collective self-care and healing justice are necessary components for achieving broader liberation and freedom
  • BEAM's community-centered approach provides practical tools and real-time application of healing practices

What's next

  • No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint

When the System Pulls Back, Black Communities Pull Up