July 2020
Bebe Moore Campbell Minority Mental Health Month
To honor the legacy of Bebe Moore Campbell , the late NAMI California leader who advocated tirelessly to end stigma and improve mental health support and care for our communities, we mark Minority Mental Health Month by elevating the voices from diverse communities.

"Why do so many more Black and Brown children like mine end up in prison? Statistics show that it is probable for Black and Brown individuals living with mental illness to end up going to jail and prison following crisis encounters, as opposed to hospitals...."

Team NAMI CA Q&A Interview with NAMI CA Board Secretary Dr. Jei Africa
"I have always been a strong advocate on equity issues. I’m proud of that and in being really authentic in trying to create visibility to our underserved populations, and putting in equity and racial justice and social justice in what I do in our work."

Video: Harold Turner from NAMI Urban Los Angeles
“The mental health field is a really very tough place for people of color to feel like they are understood and get their needs met. So that’s something we’re gong to be fighting for a way until we can develop a sustainable strategy for changing the face of what the public mental health system looks like in California.” 

One of the questions we asked our community this month:

What would you say is the biggest challenge faced by diverse communities when it comes to mental health?

Have a Story to Share?
Events
Upcoming Events
  • August 11: The Mental Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission (MHSOAC)
  • August 20: The California State Association of Counties (CSAC)
  • Sept. 3: The Department of Managed Health Care (DMHC)
  • Sept. 15: The California Pan-Ethnic Health Network (CPEHN)

October 12-13. More info coming next week!
Video Replays of Recent Events
News and Resources
Governor's Task Force on Policing
We believe a healthy community can have a productive and mutually supportive relationship with their law enforcement agencies if we have a few key markers in place that are reinforced through systemic change. Read our letter to the Governor’s Task Force on Policing.
3-Digit Suicide Line
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has formally designated 988 as a nationwide 3-digit number for mental health crisis and suicide prevention ser vices. Now we need the U.S. House of Representatives to pass the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act of 2020. Sign NAMI's letter to your representative today.
COVID-19 Guides
We are keeping our COVID-19 research guides updated with new information and resources: www.namica.org/covid19
Support for NAMI California
There are many ways you can be involved in our efforts to improve mental health care and service for all Californians. Support advocacy efforts, find out about volunteer opportunities, share your insights and stories, apply to be on NAMI California's Board, and more.
During these difficult times, support from our community is more appreciated than ever . Renewing your membership, getting a membership for a loved one, or making a donation goes a long way. As a nonprofit organization, every dollar donated to us funds our vital work to help our communities! In addition to becoming a member, did you know you can support NAMI California by shopping on Amazon or checking a box when you file your taxes ? Find out about all the ways you can give to NAMI California. Thank you!