Gov. Jay Inslee issued a proclamation this month announcing the inaugural Black Wellness Week, which will be observed April 15-19.
“Black Wellness Week is a critical acknowledgment in Washington state of the pressing need to address health disparities in Black communities,” said Keith Blocker, former Tacoma city councilmember and CEO of Momentum Professional Strategy Partners, in a press statement. “Inspired by historical advocates like Booker T. Washington, it marks a beginning in our focused journey towards health equity.”
Momentum Professional Strategy Partners, a Black-owned Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility consulting firm, is helping to lead the charge through the Elevate Black Wellness initiative.
Through a collaborative effort between Momentum Professional Strategy Partners and the Washington State Department of Health, the Elevate Black Wellness initiative establishes framework for addressing health disparities faced by the Black community. It integrates grassroots advocacy with governmental support and emphasizes actionable steps to enhance health outcomes and build a sustainable model for future wellness initiatives, the release said.
Christina Blocker, founder of Momentum Professional Strategy Partners, echoed that sentiment: “Acknowledgment is the first step toward addressing the systemic disparities that have long plagued our communities. Black Wellness Week not only honors our history, but also propels us toward a future of equitable health care for each one of our communities.”
Momentum Professional Strategy Partners is inviting organizations and community groups to join it in its efforts for Black Wellness Week.