Empowering Voices: Syracuse University’s Groundbreaking Mental Hea…

In the warmly lit confines of the Barner-McDuffie House, a group of 15 Black students embarked on a transformative journey, navigating the intricacies of their mental well-being. The event, titled ‘Mind your Matter’, unfolded as a beacon of hope and understanding, addressing the often overlooked mental health needs of Black students at Syracuse University. Spearheaded by the university’s Office of Multicultural Affairs and the Barnes Center at the Arch, this session, led by peer educators Kelvin Boakye and Kayla Turner, marked a pivotal moment in the conversation about intersectionality and mental health. Advertisment Breaking the Silence The need for such an initiative is underscored by stark realities. A recent study by EAB, as reported by WHYY, reveals that nearly a third of students opt out of college due to mental health concerns, with Black students disproportionately affected. This session aimed to shatter the silence, providing a platform where students could freely explore their identities and the aspects most misunderstood about them. Through interactive activities, Boakye and Turner illuminated the weight of intergenerational trauma and the power of resilience, encouraging an open exchange of experiences and coping strategies. Empowering Through Education Advertisment Amid the discussions, a sobering statistic emerged: approximately 50%...