Behavioral Health Department and NAACP Co-Present Juneteenth Community Resource Fair

Author: Behavioral Health Department
Date: 5/28/2019 11:28 AM

The Behavioral Health Department is collaborating with the NAACP SLO County Branch to present a health and well-being fair—with music, resource tables, a panel discussion and more—at an upcoming Juneteenth Freedom Day celebration on June 15 in San Luis Obispo.

---

Juneteenth Independence Day or Freedom Day is an American holiday that commemorates the announcement of the abolition of slavery in the state of Texas in 1865. Today, Juneteenth is recognized as a state holiday or official observance in forty-five U.S. states, including California. 

“It’s a time to celebrate freedom, come together as a community, recognize the past and work for a better future,” said Cheryl Vines, NAACP San Luis Obispo County Branch Secretary. “This year, we’re focusing on resources for living a healthy life, both mentally and physically. Racism, discrimination and internalized oppression are psychological in nature. The NAACP advocates for human and equal rights, for all people. A behavioral health approach is important as it provides individuals the support and resources to help them heal and follow a path of recovery and well-being. Good mental health and a society free from oppression set the foundation for healthy living in our mind, body and spirit.” 

This event is the first in a series of NAACP programs focused on behavioral health throughout the year ahead. 

“I joined the Juneteenth celebration planning team because spreading knowledge and keeping the community informed of the rich experiences of our minority communities show the importance of creating a venue for inclusion, diversity, and collaboration,” said Nestor Veloz-Passalacqua, M.P.P., Cultural Competence Committee Chair and Ethnic Services Manager with the Behavioral Health Department. “I hope the community will appreciate and gain historical knowledge about Juneteenth and the way it exemplifies and encourages celebration, recovery, and a continued fight for representation of our diverse community.”

What: Juneteenth Celebration with a resource fair, children’s activities, dancing, yoga and educational panel discussion, plus evening concert. 

When: Saturday, June 15. Events include:

• 12:00 pm—Event opens with resource fair, educational freedom lounge and DJ
• 12:30 pm—Welcome and gospel music 
• 1:00 pm—Health and Wellness Panel Discussion 
•  2:15-3:15 pm—Central Coast Afro Rhythm and Dance Performance
• 3:30 pm-4:30—SLO Yoga Center Demonstration

Where: SLO Vets Hall, 801 Grand Ave in San Luis Obispo

Following the resource fair, the celebration will feature an evening concert with the All for Real band. For more information, visit 65strong.org.