Wealth in Health

At Alegria, we honor July as BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month with deep reverence and reflection. In San Basilio de Palenque, the story of mental health is one of quiet resilience and unshakable spirit. Despite centuries of discrimination, structural neglect, and limited access to equitable care, the people of Palenque continue to cultivate joy, hope, and connection as acts of resistance and survival. In this sacred space, wellness isn’t just about the absence of illness—it’s about the presence of community, culture, music, respect, and equity in care that nourishes the soul.

We recognize that mental health doesn’t exist in isolation; it is shaped by the environment, access to resources, and the ongoing fight for justice. My background in behavioral health has broadened my personal awareness of how significantly discrimination, marginalization, historical trauma, etc. can impact physical and mental health. And yet, Palenque’s history reminds us that even in the face of adversity, healing is possible. This month, we invite our supporters to see the beauty and power of culturally grounded mental health practices—from ancestral rituals to shared laughter on porches, to collaborative partnerships with local healthcare providers. As we continue advocating for policies and support systems that center BIPOC wellness for San Basilio de Palenque, we also pause to honor the wealth that already exists in this community: the wealth of joy, love, legacy, hope, and resilience.

Committed To Health as Wealth,

Erin

#MissionPreservePalenque #MisionPreservarAPalenque #HealthIsWealth #BIPOCMentalHealthAwarenessMonth