Forum Encourages Men to Break the Silence and Seek Healing
MOUNT VERNON, NY — While much of the nation celebrated Juneteenth by reflecting on freedom, history, and progress, a group of faith leaders, mental health professionals, and community advocates gathered at Macedonia Baptist Church in Mount Vernon to address another issue impacting the Black community: men’s mental health.
Hosted at Macedonia Baptist Church, under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Darren Morton, Senior Pastor, and Rev. Joyce Summerville, Associate Pastor, the Men’s Mental Health Forum brought together community members for an honest discussion about emotional wellness, healing, faith, and the challenges many men face in silence.
The forum featured trained social workers Preston and Chaka, business owner Charnay, actor and spiritual leader Zachary, and community members committed to raising awareness about men’s mental health and emotional well-being.
Throughout the discussion, participants emphasized that while society often encourages men to be providers, protectors, and leaders, it rarely creates safe spaces for them to discuss emotional struggles, grief, trauma, depression, anxiety, or stress.
Several speakers noted that many men are taught from a young age to suppress their emotions and simply “be strong,” often leaving them isolated when facing personal challenges.
The panel explored the importance of recognizing mental health challenges early, building support systems, and encouraging men to seek help before reaching a crisis point. Participants also discussed the impact untreated mental health issues can have on marriages, families, careers, and communities.
Social workers Preston and Chaka provided professional perspectives on warning signs, treatment options, available resources, and ways families can support loved ones who may be struggling emotionally.
A recurring theme throughout the evening was that seeking help should not be viewed as weakness but as an act of wisdom, strength, and self-awareness.
The forum’s focus on healing and personal growth carried special significance on Juneteenth, a holiday commemorating freedom and resilience. Attendees reflected on the importance of pursuing not only physical freedom but also emotional, mental, and spiritual wellness.
Prior to the event, Black Westchester Magazine’s The Publisher’s Desk with Damon K. Jones featured a discussion about the upcoming forum and the growing importance of addressing men’s mental health in the Black community. Guests included Rev. Andre Coleman and Rev. Dr. Darren Morton, who discussed the role churches can play in supporting men, reducing stigma, and encouraging open conversations about mental health and healing.
During that discussion, Rev. Morton spoke about the importance of churches serving as places where individuals can find both spiritual guidance and support while recognizing the value of professional mental health resources when needed.
Organizers expressed hope that the Juneteenth forum would be the beginning of a larger community conversation and encourage more men to seek support, build healthy relationships, and engage in honest discussions about their mental and emotional well-being.
As the evening concluded, one message remained clear: strong communities are built on healthy families, and healthy families often begin with healthy men.
As participants reminded those in attendance, strong men need healing too.
