FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 15, 2025
Media Contact:
Yolanda Raine
VP, Marketing and Communications, CBCF
media@cbcfinc.org
Chavonne Jones
Chavonne Jones PR
chavjones2@gmail.com
Washington, DC — In recognition of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday, The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) and The Equity Braintrust proudly announce the release of the National Mental Health Equity Framework, a transformative blueprint aimed at dismantling systemic inequities in mental health care and promoting equitable access for all. Inspired by Dr. King’s call to address healthcare injustice as “the most shocking and inhumane” form of inequality, this groundbreaking framework tackles critical barriers to receiving mental health care and champions actionable solutions rooted in the political and social determinants of health.
The Equity Braintrust, a coalition of advocates, policymakers, and mental health experts, developed the framework in collaboration with CBCF’s Center for Policy Analysis and Research. The framework underscores the intersectionality of systemic inequities, such as racial bias, fragmented systems, and insufficient resources that disproportionately impact marginalized communities, particularly Black populations.
“Mental health is foundational to overall well-being, yet systemic inequities continue to block access to quality care for far too many communities,” said Dr. Jonathan Cox, Vice President of CBCF’s Center for Policy Analysis and Research. “Our partnership with The Equity Braintrust has been instrumental in releasing this framework, which provides a bold roadmap to ensure equitable access, cultural humility, and patient-centered approaches critical to fostering resilience and improving lives.”
The framework emphasizes key priorities, including:
- Access to Quality Care: Addressing disparities in care navigation and transitions in care settings.
- Workforce Development: Expanding the mental health workforce through diversification, debt-free education initiatives, and the integration of community health workers and peer support programs.
- Decriminalization of Mental Health: Eliminating punitive practices and investing in community-based crisis response systems.
- Cultural Humility and Patient Education: Fostering trust through culturally responsive, patient-centered approaches and acknowledging the interconnectedness of physical and mental health.
“Our approach, within this framework, highlights the importance of policy reforms, community-driven solutions, and actionable strategies to transform mental health equity from an ideal into a tangible reality,” said Courtney Billington, Chair of the Equity Braintrust. “Achieving mental health equity requires more than addressing systemic barriers; it calls for a fundamental rethinking of care delivery.”
The National Mental Health Equity Framework also highlights the urgent need to support workforce wellness by addressing burnout, ensuring fair compensation, and fostering supportive workplace policies. By advancing policy solutions, advocacy, inclusive practices, and community-driven interventions, the framework lays a solid foundation for transformative change.
To learn more about the National Mental Health Equity Framework or access the full report, please visit https://www.cbcfinc.org/publications.
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About CBCF: Established in 1976, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (CBCF) is a non-partisan, nonprofit, public policy, research, and educational institute committed to advancing the global Black community by developing leaders, informing policy, and educating the public. For more information, visit cbcfinc.org and follow @CBCFinc on social platforms.
About The Equity Braintrust: The Equity Braintrust is a convening of thought leaders, advocates, and mental health experts committed to advancing equitable access to mental health care. Through informed, race-conscious policy solutions, improved care navigation, and systemic transformation, the Braintrust champions the well-being of historically marginalized communities.