This historic proclamation not only marks a significant milestone for Black history in Washington State but also symbolizes a bold commitment to addressing the unique health disparities faced by the Black community.
Throughout history, the Black community has encountered systemic barriers to wellness, including unequal access to healthcare, discriminatory practices, and socioeconomic disparities. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated these disparities, with Black individuals experiencing disproportionately higher rates of infection, severe illness, and mortality.
Leading the charge in this remarkable moment in Black history and catalyzing the Elevate Black Wellness initiative is Momentum Professional Strategy Partners, a Black-owned Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) consulting firm. This initiative, born out of a dire need to address health disparities, stands as a testament to the impactful role that Black-owned businesses play in driving societal advancements.
Keith Blocker, former Tacoma City Councilmember and CEO of Momentum Professional Strategy Partners, emphasized the significance of the proclamation, stating, “Black Wellness Week is a critical acknowledgment in Washington State of the pressing need to address health disparities in Black communities. Inspired by historical advocates like Booker T. Washington, it marks a beginning in our focused journey towards health equity.”
Christina Blocker, Founder of Momentum Professional Strategy Partners, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Acknowledgment is the first step towards addressing the systemic disparities that have long plagued our communities. Black Wellness Week not only honors our history but also propels us towards a future of equitable healthcare for each one of our communities.”
In partnership with Momentum Professional Strategy Partners and the Washington State Department of Health, the Elevate Black Wellness initiative has established a robust framework for addressing health disparities. This collaborative effort integrates grassroots advocacy with governmental support, emphasizing actionable steps to enhance health outcomes and build a sustainable model for future wellness initiatives.
The Governor’s proclamation underscores the importance of collaborative efforts and community engagement in driving meaningful change. Momentum invites organizations and community groups to join them in their efforts for Black Wellness Week. Deaunte Damper, VOCAL WA Community Organizer, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “This moment is a milestone in Black history for Washington state. It’s a call to elevate the dialogue on health equity within our communities, challenging each of us to engage actively. The real question is, how can we harness this momentum to create sustainable change?”