Whittier Street Health Center Celebrates Black History Month

February is designated as Black History Month, a yearly commemoration of the accomplishments of African Americans. It serves as a period to acknowledge the challenges and hardships faced in the Black American experience within the United States, as well as appreciating and honoring its significant contribution to the nation’s history.

On February 15th, as part of our Black History Month celebration, Whittier Street Health Center will express our dedication and ongoing initiatives to advocate for health equity, social justice, and the reduction of economic disparities. Despite progress made on both a national and local level to address these inequities, significant gaps persist, fueled by racial discrimination against the Black community.

Black History Month serves as a moment to acknowledge, understand, and celebrate. Our emphasis during this time extends beyond addressing biases and injustices; we will also highlight the triumphs achieved in the ongoing struggle against discrimination. Additionally, we will pay tribute to those whose contributions have paved the way for our accomplishments.

We are delighted to announce that Carmen Fields, the Emmy Award-winning broadcast news journalist, producer, host, and author, will be the Keynote speaker at our event on February 15th. Carmen Fields will be sharing insights from her book “Going Back to T Town: The Ernie Fields Territory Big Band,” which focuses on her father, Ernie Fields, a Southern Trombonist in the 1960s, who overcame segregation, racial prejudice, and threats of violence. Join us for an engaging discussion as Carmen Fields brings forth the intriguing story of her father’s musical legacy.

We are also excited to announce that we will be presenting our President’s Award to Ms. Beulah Providence for her significant contributions to the betterment of people’s lives in the Black community.  Ms. Providence has spearheaded the Caribbean Foundation since its inception, which has helped create job opportunities in many neighborhoods and fostered a community of trainees, workers, and clients who share a common culture.

Frederica M. Williams, President & CEO, will also share Whittier’s efforts during the past fiscal year to serve as a “Beacon of Hope: Championing Health Equity and Social Justice.” Our annual report highlights strategies to support health equity and social justice that Whittier has implemented over the past year. Whittier is a voice for people eager to be heard with dignity and respect. When no one is ignored, all will thrive!