In a vibrant display of unity and celebration, the Social Model Recovery Systems (SMRS) All-Agency Meeting held at Almansor Court on February 13, 2024, resonated with the theme “Shades of Black” in honor of Black History Month.
The event, marked by insightful discussions, cultural expressions, and heartfelt reflections, encapsulated the essence of diversity, equity, and inclusion – core values deeply ingrained within SMRS.
The program commenced with a warm welcome from Senior Director of Clinical Services Lynetta Hale, Executive Assistant Ann Houston-Sago, and Director of Innovation Dr. Anna Lee, who emphasized the significance of honoring Black History Month within the framework of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), Intersectionality, and Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) – pillars that define SMRS’s ethos.
To set the tone for the engaging sessions ahead, attendees participated in a lively Kahoot game led by Senior Director of Community Relations Mike Schaub and Community Relations Assistant Janelle Gollaba, fostering a sense of camaraderie and enthusiasm among attendees.
The meeting then delved into deeper discussions, starting with reflections on emotional emancipation quotes led by Lynetta and UCEPP Project Coordinator Charles Porter. Representatives from each of seventeen tables shared their insights, promoting dialogue and mutual learning among attendees.
A poignant moment followed with our very own Ann Houston-Sago presenting her poem “Where Did We Come From and What Did We Bring,” encapsulating the journey and contributions of the Black community throughout history. The poem served as a reminder of the resilience and strength ingrained in the Black community throughout history. Her words encompassed the journey from the shores of Africa, where they once reigned as kings and queens, to the struggles endured during the transatlantic slave trade. Yet, amidst adversity, the poem highlighted the enduring contributions brought forth by African descendants – from mathematics and science to agriculture and cultural heritage. It was a powerful testament to the enduring legacy of Black excellence and innovation.
In an enlightening presentation, Charles Porter, elucidated the history of the black diaspora, addressing themes of identity, resilience, and cultural legacy. Concepts such as Oyimba DuDu and Maafa provided a nuanced understanding of the complexities inherent in the African American experience, underscoring the need for integral approaches to healing and reintegration.
Throughout the lunch session, attendees were serenaded by a captivating medley of music composed by Black artists, symbolizing the indelible imprint of Black creativity on the world stage. The rhythmic cadences and soul-stirring melodies underscored the importance of celebrating Black excellence and cultural diversity.
After a nourishing lunch, the atmosphere was lifted with the Soul Train dance led by Lynetta, Charles, Ann, and Community-Based Housing and Alumni Director Brandon James, fostering a sense of joy and connection. Michael Rimson embodied the persona of the late Don Cornelius, who was the inspiration and voice of the SOUUUUUL TRAIIIIIIN!
The educational journey continued as Charles and Brandon delved into the culinary realm, exploring the significance of food as a cultural touchstone through a clip from the Netflix documentary, “High on the Hog.” This exploration illuminated the profound connections between food, history, and identity, enriching participants’ understanding of cultural heritage.
Further expanding on the global impact of colorism and White Supremacy, Brandon and Lynetta engaged attendees in a thought-provoking dialogue, fostering a deeper awareness of systemic inequalities and the imperative for collective action.
The meeting culminated with insights from Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Bruce Boardman, who underscored SMRS’ commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, including the reinstatement of the Cultural Awareness Survey and the promotion of monthly Cultural Awareness Meetings. A lively Q&A session provided an opportunity for the employees to further engage with leadership and contribute to ongoing efforts towards meaningful change.
SMRS All-Agency Meeting was not only a celebration of Black history and culture but also a call to action for continued advocacy and empowerment. Through education, dialogue, and collective action, participants reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to honoring and amplifying the voices and contributions of the Black community. It was a testament to the power of unity, resilience, and hope in the pursuit of a more just and equitable world.
