B4 The Afro-American June 8, 2024 - June 14, 2024
‘Can We Talk? Symposium!’ spotlights mental health
“Can We Talk? Symposium!” panelists join actress Taraji P. Henson for a photo.
Councilman Edward Burroughs III presents actress Taraji P. Henson (left) and Tracie Jade with a key to Prince George’s County at the “Can We Talk? Symposium!”
By Patricia McDougall
Mariah Moore (left), co-founder of the House of Tulips, and Raquel Willis, author and media strategist, speak on a panel titled, “Unapologetically Me: Breaking Binary, Living Out Loud.”
Panelist Tayveon Henry shares his expertise with attendees.
Taryn Bird, director of the Kate Spade New York Foundation; Leslie Hardy, director of diversity and inclusion at Pinterest; Ramcess Jean-Louis, chief of diversity, equity and inclusion for Pfizer; John Burns, of the Burns Brothers; Taraji P. Henson and Tracie Jade come A fireside chat takes place with Dawn together shortly after participating in a panel titled, “Reversing Flythe Moore, first lady of the State of the Tide: BIPOC Organizations and the Vanishing Support for Maryland. Economic Empowerment.”
Taraji P. Henson and Boris L. Henson Foundation (BLHF) held its annual “Can We Talk? Symposium!” at the Gaylord National Harbor May 30 - 31. The theme, “Radical Attunement,” attracted an audience of over 400, as mental health professionals addressed the challenges of being mentally, emotionally and physically well. Aside from sound advice and support, attendees were able to receive massages and get haircuts. The “Can We Talk? Symposium!” is more than just an event - it’s a platform for residents to engage in meaningful dialogue, share their stories and cultivate a sense of belonging, according to Tracie Jade Jenkins, BLHF Executive Director. “We are thrilled to partner with BET and Councilman Edward Burroughs to create an environment where attendees can embrace authenticity and empower one another while receiving the resources they need to thrive.” The speakers included BLHF Founder and President Taraji P. Henson; BLHF Executive Director Tracie Jade Jenkins; Dr. Anita Phillips; Jason Wilson; Dr. Judith Joseph; Kier Gaines; Shanti Das; Dr. Jay Barnett; Lamman Rucker; BET stars DeVale Ellis and Crystal Renee Hayslett (Tyler Perry’s Zatima, Sistas), and more. Discussions on a wide range of topics took place at the event. Masculinity, generational trauma and suicide in the Black community were all topics of discussion. The event closed out with a 90’s themed hip-hop party.
Dr. Marcus Mason; Dr. Lamman Rucker; Kier Gaines; Devale Ellis and Jason Wilson Symposium attendees gain wisdom from the “S.I.T. Down Sis: Self-preservation Is speak on a panel titled, “Beyond the Armor: Redefining Masculinity Through Transformative” panel. Speakers included Ashley “Dr. Vivid” Elliott (left); Dr. Raquel Martin; Vulnerability.” Chanda Reynolds; Delena Zimmerman; Ashley Silva and Crystal Renee Hayslett.
Clarke Peoples speaks on a symposium panel. Students of Prince George’s County attend the symposium along with local elected officials.
All Photos by Patricia McDougall
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