Barbara Lash – Page 2

Toxic Haze: Unmasking the Dangers of Smoking for those with Sickle Cell Disease.

July 19, 2024 by Barbara Lash

Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a genetic disorder that affects hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen. Instead of the normal bi-concave shape, red blood cells assume a sickle or crescent shape, heightening their fragility and hindering efficient oxygenation. Because people with sickle cell already are suffering the effects of decreased oxygen in the blood, symptoms varying in degree of pain from headaches, shortness of breath, agonizing pain akin to stabbing sensations, and other associated diseases lung problems are commonplace. While such challenges are well-documented, there’s a silent threat that often goes unnoticed – the impact of certain behaviors such as smoking on individuals living with Sickle Cell Disease.

The challenges faced by individuals with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) are significantly exacerbated by smoking. This detrimental effect is primarily due to smoking’s introduction of carbon monoxide into the bloodstream, which substantially reduces its oxygen-carrying capacity. Consequently, individuals are at a heightened risk of experiencing painful episodes.

Smoking is a significant risk factor for various health issues in individuals with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), particularly contributing to the development of complications such as Acute Chest Syndrome. It is crucial to emphasize that both active smoking and exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (secondhand smoke) are linked to a rate of Acute Chest Syndrome(ACS) episodes that surpass twice the frequency observed in individuals with no smoke exposure (Cohen et al., 2010, Gray et al., 1991; Young et al., 1992; Sadreameli et al.,2016). ACS, characterized by sudden chest pain, fever, and respiratory distress, stands as a primary cause of illness and hospitalizations among SCD patients, second only to recurrent pain episodes. ACS 25 % of all deaths in patients with SCD (Gray et al., 1991)

Additionally, both active and secondhand smoke can contribute to heightened inflammation in blood vessels, induce the aggregation of blood cells, and enhance the inner lining of blood vessels’ susceptibility to attracting and retaining substances, thereby elevating the risks of blockage. There is also a higher risk of contracting pneumonia. Complications from pneumonia include respiratory failure and even death. The elevated mortality rate among young adults with SCD points to the fact that both smoking and current asthma are significant predictors of mortality. (Knight-Madden et al., 2013)

Why smoke? Nicotine has a mellowing effect on individuals, masking pain perception and temporarily causing anxiety relief, making it an attractive method for individuals with SCD to cope with their pain. Because smoking increases pain, the recurrent pain serves as a significant motivator for continued smoking, creating a vicious cycle. The harmful cycle established by smoking intensifies pain, leading to increased stress and prompting individuals to resort to smoking as a coping mechanism. SCD patients should be taught skills to break this vicious cycle.

The complex relationship between smoking and Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions and increased awareness programs, specifically designed to address the health risks smoking poses to individuals with SCD. The crucial strategy involves empowering the SCD community with effective coping mechanisms and promoting widespread knowledge about the negative impact of smoking on their health. Breaking the destructive cycle initiated by smoking, especially given the context of recurring pain, is a critical step in improving the overall well-being of this group. Additionally, fostering engagement with healthcare providers and encouraging participation in support groups not only provides personalized guidance but also cultivates a community where shared experiences and mutual support pave a more effective route toward cessation of smoking.

Relief from Pot: Is Smoking Marijuana Beneficial for People with Sickle Cell Disease?

July 19, 2024 by Barbara Lash

The quest for effective management of chronic pain in Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) has seen little progress, despite the emergence of new drugs aiming to mitigate the frequency of the disease’s crises. Current treatments fall short of addressing the chronic pain that 54% of individuals with SCD endure for more than half of their lives (Smith et al., 2008). With most patients managing their pain at home, the severity of their suffering is often underestimated by healthcare providers, leading to a treatment gap. Against this backdrop, cannabis—also known as marijuana, pot, or Mary Jane—emerges as an innovative approach that is utilized by some of the individuals grappling with Sickle Cell Disease to alleviate the severity of their painful episodes. Crucially, over 33% of adults with sickle cell disease (SCD) admit to using cannabis-based products (Curtis et al., 2020). However, the pressing question remains: Is it safe?

Marijuana contains a wealth of cannabinoids, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), which show remarkable potential in pain management, particularly for those grappling with Sickle Cell Disease. THC, the main psychoactive element in marijuana, stimulates the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter linked to pleasure, in the brain (Bloomfield et al., 2016; Bossong et al., 2009; Oleson and Cheer, 2012). This process leads to a euphoric state commonly referred to as feeling ‘high,’ thereby affecting mood and the sense of reward (Cafasso, 2022; Abrams et al., 2020; Healthline blog). Moreover, both THC and CBD interact with the CB-1 and CB-2 receptors in the immune and central nervous systems. These interactions are crucial in moderating pain and inflammation, particularly in SCD, where they represent the primary symptoms.

Smoking is the most preferred form of cannabis administration (Curtis et al., 2020). However, for individuals with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) who may already be facing respiratory challenges, including Acute Chest Syndrome, this practice could further aggravate their condition. This calls for the urgent need for further research to determine if alternative methods of administration, such as cannabis extracts, might be more effective and safer in managing pain for those with Sickle Cell Disease.

Despite the potential benefits that cannabis has shown in managing SCD, a research team from the University of Michigan Medical School and the VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System found that over 50% of individuals who use medical marijuana products for pain relief experience clusters of multiple withdrawal symptoms during periods between uses. The study further revealed that marijuana contributes to deteriorating changes in sleep, mood, mental state, energy, and appetite. Of utmost concern is that the withdrawal symptoms do not directly stem from the individuals’ underlying conditions but rather from the brain and the body’s response to the absence of active ingredients in the cannabis introduced into the body.

Cannabis withdrawal syndrome manifests when individuals experience symptoms such as heightened anxiety, disrupted sleep patterns, diminished appetite, restlessness, a sense of depression, and increased aggression. If these symptoms are severe, they can potentially metamorphize into Cannabis Use Disorder. This arises when individuals attempting to reduce or quit cannabis face intensified symptoms, making it difficult to break free from the cycle. Ultimately, this heightened severity can lead individuals to misinterpret the symptoms and associate them with their medical conditions. Consequently, it sets off a challenging cycle of increased cannabis use that is hard to break.

According to ProCon.org, as of June 2022, 37 states along with the District of Columbia have legalized the use of marijuana for qualifying medical conditions, marking a steady increase in the accessibility of medical marijuana across the United States. However, it’s important to highlight that among these, only nine states acknowledge sickle cell disease (SCD) as a condition eligible for medical marijuana treatment. Despite this growing acceptance, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has yet to approve any cannabis products specifically for the treatment of pain related to SCD. The FDA has approved cannabinoids, such as Epidiolex (which contains CBD), exclusively for treating two rare forms of epilepsy (Cafasso, 2022, Healthline blog). As a result, individuals with SCD seeking pain relief may face potential risks when resorting to marijuana products sourced from unofficial channels. The situation is further complicated by the fact that adults with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) often turn to cannabis due to receiving insufficient opioid dosages from their medical caregivers. Additionally, they face increased stigmatization when seeking higher doses of these analgesics, coupled with a lack of alternative options for pain relief (Sinha et al., 2019; Argueta et al., 2020).

The management of pain associated with Sickle Cell Disease presents a significant challenge within the medical community, with cannabis emerging as a prospective yet intricate solution. Although numerous studies have indicated favorable outcomes, the presence of contradictory results alongside the absence of formal approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) accentuates the imperative for further extensive research into the effectiveness and safety of cannabis for pain relief in SCD. Furthermore, the necessity to achieve a delicate balance between efficacious pain management, enhancement of mood, and the mitigation of potential adverse effects underscores the critical importance of individualized medical decisions. This is particularly pertinent given the stigmatization and difficulties encountered by adults with SCD in the hands of their healthcare providers.

Extinguishing the Habit: Resources for Sickle Cell Disease Individuals to Help Quit Smoking.

July 19, 2024 by Barbara Lash

Navigating the daunting complexities of living with Sickle Cell Disease is a formidable challenge. The task becomes even more daunting for those aiming to overcome their tobacco dependence. However, there is hope, as a plethora of resources are available to assist individuals on their journey to cessation. These resources focus on offering personalized support and tools that are easily accessible. Crucially, they aim not only to aid in quitting but also to empower SCD individuals to lead healthier lives, liberated from the grip of tobacco.

Fewer than one in ten adult cigarette smokers succeed in quitting annually, underscoring the substantial difficulty associated with cessation efforts. To bring this into perspective, around 30% to 50% of smokers in the US make attempts to quit annually. However, success rates are so minimal, with only 7.5% achieving the feat (Pierce, 2022). These figures may even be as low as 4 to 7% (American Cancer Society). The high prevalence of smoking is similarly reflected in populations with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), where 36% of these individuals actively smoke. For them, the challenge of quitting smoking is particularly daunting, as many use smoking as a coping mechanism for pain (Cohen et al., 2010; Britto et al., 1998).

Taking the initiative to quit smoking is a significant step, particularly for individuals grappling with sickle cell disease. Seeking essential guidance from healthcare professionals and their primary care physicians ensures that they receive personalized advice and interventions that are specifically tailored to address the unique impact that smoking has on them.

According to Barnett et al. (2008), smoking cessation services incur a cost of $6,204 per successful quit, whereas the combined expenses for cessation services and mental health care reach $11,496 per successful quit. These figures underscore the significant financial burden placed on individuals embarking on a journey to quit smoking. According to Barnett et al. (2008), the cost of smoking cessation services stands at $6,204 per successful quit, and when combined with mental health care, the total expense rises to $11,496 per successful quit. These figures reveal the significant financial commitment required from individuals on the path to quitting smoking. Individuals with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) frequently grapple with high healthcare costs, which, when combined with their potentially precarious financial situations, make the additional expense of smoking cessation programs a significant obstacle. The problem is further compounded by the fact that many of them are impoverished and unemployed (Pires et al., 2022; Sanger et al., 2016; Idowu et al., 2018), and lack adequate health insurance, making it more difficult for them to access and afford cessation services and mental health care.

It is important to highlight that there has been no independent study conducted to determine the precise cost associated with smoking in sickle cell populations. To address the potential financial challenges many SCD patients face, there is a need to broaden the support framework by collaborating with government programs at the national and state levels to unlock subsidies or coverage options so that smoking cessation services are more financially feasible.

Close collaboration with key healthcare providers is essential not only for obtaining medical guidance but also for exploring flexible payment options, discounts, or direct financial assistance programs. Such a collaborative approach ensures that financial barriers do not impede access to the necessary support for quitting smoking, thereby facilitating a smoother pathway to cessation for those in need.

In Kent County, individuals with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) seeking to quit tobacco and nicotine have access to valuable resources provided by Spectrum Health (now Corewell Health). This healthcare organization offers three distinct programs tailored to different stages of smoking cessation, ensuring personalized support for those aiming to quit. Crucially, all these programs are available at no cost to patients or the community, thereby making them accessible to individuals with SCD.

The first program, Let’s Talk Tobacco is specifically designed for those in the initial stages of exploring their relationship with tobacco or nicotine. Led by Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialists (TTS), participants engage in four weekly group sessions. The focus is on providing the latest information about tobacco, cessation resources, and medications without pressuring individuals to quit. This program serves as a crucial initial step for individuals with SCD contemplating a change in their tobacco use. For individuals with SCD who are motivated and ready to quit smoking, vaping, or chewing tobacco, the Let’s Quit Tobacco program offers expert guidance, approved medications, and social support. The program begins with an individual meeting with a Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist, followed by five group sessions. This structured approach allows participants with SCD to create and follow a personalized quit plan, gaining enhanced skills, motivation, and confidence to quit tobacco successfully. To provide ongoing support for those with SCD who have successfully quit or are in the process of quitting, Spectrum Health offers Let’s Stay Quit This monthly support group, led by a Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist, serves as a platform for individuals with SCD to connect with and receive support from others who share similar goals. The group sessions focus on offering tips for coping with cravings, stress management, and strategies to avoid relapse.

Collectively, these programs create a comprehensive and supportive environment specifically tailored for individuals with SCD in Kent County who aim to quit smoking. By addressing various stages of readiness and providing ongoing support through group sessions and support groups, Corewell Health plays a crucial role in facilitating the journey towards a tobacco-free life in the local community. However, the costs of these programs are unknown, and the information must be made accessible. For further information or to get started, individuals with SCD in Kent County can contact Spectrum Health at 616.486.0385 or via email at lifestylemedicine@spectrumhealth.org.

Valuable support and guidance through various online resources can also benefir SCD individuals on their journey to quit. Forums such as the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America (SCDAA) (www.sicklecelldisease.org) alongside platforms like QuitNet and the HealthUnlocked Sickle Cell Society, have become invaluable spaces for individuals with SCD to connect with peers grappling with smoking and who want to quit. These dedicated websites offer not only a sense of belonging but also a virtual space to exchange experiences and advice about quiting.

Mobile apps designed to help individuals to quit smoking like QuitNow!, Smoke-Free, MyQuit Coach, Quit Tracker, Craving to Quit, and Kwit can be downloaded for free on the phone. These applications provide a range of features and tools designed to aid in goal setting, progress tracking, and the creation of personalized quit plans. QuitNow! nurtures a supportive community atmosphere, while Smoke-Free emphasizes craving tracking and daily mission setting. MyQuit Coach offers customized plans tailored to individual habits, and Quit Tracker focuses on monitoring the time since the last cigarette alongside the financial savings achieved. Craving to Quit integrates mindfulness techniques into its approach, and Kwit turns the quitting process into a game, complete with achievements and health tracking, to motivate users. Collectively, these applications provide a multifaceted approach, that addresses cravings, integrates mindfulness, and documents the journey. While these apps are freely downloadable on various mobile phone platforms, their monthly subscriptions or other related costs are not known.

Quitlines are another direct, and easily accessible support resource that individuals with Sickle Cell Disease seeking to quit smoking can utilize. These services, including the National Quitline (1-800-QUIT-NOW) and the Michigan Tobacco Quitline (1-800-QUIT-NOW or 1-800-784-8669 for Michigan residents), serve as crucial lifelines for those wading through the quitting journey. By connecting individuals with trained professionals who understand the challenges of managing SCD while striving to quit smoking, these toll-free hotlines operate with strict confidentiality. Besides that, they offer personalized assistance, recommend resources, and a supportive environment that lays the ground for effective quit plans. Beyond guidance, these services may also include free telephone coaching and, for eligible uninsured callers, the possibility of free nicotine patches.

Alongside nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)—which encompasses prescription options such as nasal sprays or inhalers, as well as over-the-counter alternatives like nicotine patches, gum, and lozenges—non-nicotine medications, including bupropion (Wellbutrin SR, Wellbutrin XL) and varenicline, can aid in the quitting process. However, these medications must be recommended by healthcare providers, making it crucial to engage with medical professionals. This allows for the tailoring of the approach to individual needs, ensuring the adoption of more effective and personalized strategies for quitting.

To complement traditional resources for quitting smoking, other effective yet often overlooked nontraditional strategies need to be taken into consideration. Integrating relaxation techniques into the cessation journey like those recommended by the Mayo Clinic is one such strategy. Managing stress, a significant trigger for tobacco cravings, demands more than conventional means. Therefore, these individuals need to be encouraged to seamlessly incorporate relaxation practices into their daily routines through deep breathing, muscle relaxation exercises, yoga, visualization, massage, or immersing in calming music. These practices not only enhance stress management but also bolster the ability to navigate the challenges of quitting smoking.

In summary, the journey toward empowering individuals with sickle cell disease to quit smoking calls for a multifaceted approach that includes various resources and strategies. Seeking guidance from healthcare professionals, leveraging freely available resources from the government, and advocating for policy changes form a collaborative framework for addressing the unique challenges that SCD patients face. Online resources such as tailored mobile apps, local healthcare programs, and Quitlines, form an integral part of the toolkit for SCD individuals who want to quit smoking. Additionally, incorporating mental programs like relaxation techniques further enhances the effectiveness of smoking cessation efforts. By embracing these diverse resources and strategies, individuals with SCD can embark on a transformative journey toward improved health and well-being.

Bio – Dr. Denise Kingdom Grier

June 21, 2024 by Barbara Lash

Rev. Dr. Denise Kingdom Grier was born in New York City and moved to North Carolina as an adolescent. In 1994, Dr. Grier received a BA in psychology from Shaw University in Raleigh, North Carolina, and immediately began a career as a social worker.

Upon moving to Michigan, she became a child welfare specialist in foster care and adoptions at Bethany Christian Services. Dr. Grier soon went on to attend Western Theological Seminary, becoming the first African American female to graduate with the Master of Divinity degree in 2005 and the Doctorate of Ministry degree in 2017. Dr. Grier’s doctoral research interrogates a system of apartheid in the American church in order to redirect outreach practices toward what she calls Embracing, a reciprocal model of community engagement.

Rev. Grier has had three pastoral appointments: Calvary Reformed Church as Associate Pastor for 3 years, Maple Avenue Ministries CRC/RCA as Lead Pastor for 12 years and currently Mobilization and Renewal Pastor at Mars Hill Bible Church in Grandville, Michigan.

Rev. Grier is also a Mission Partner with a child-placing agency in Botshabelo, South Africa. Setshabelo Family and Child Services works with local churches to provide loving homes for orphans and vulnerable children within their community as an alternative to orphanages. She works under the supervision of the Global Missions department of the Reformed Church in America. Recently Denise encapsulates her work and interests in the 1cor13project.com.

She lives in Holland, Michigan, with her two biological children Gezelle and Chris.

Listen to the GRAAHI Podcast – “”Doulas and Midwives – Developing a Birth Plan” here>

Exercise Regimes and Benefits for African Americans with Sickle Cell Disease

October 26, 2023 by Barbara Lash

“Unleashing the Power of Exercise in the Fight Against Sickle Cell Disease”
The rhythm of African drums pulsating inthe background, the vibrant energy of a Zumba class in full swing, the serene focus of a yoga session, or the simple joy of a brisk walk in the park – exercise, in its many forms, is a celebration of life and vitality.
For African Americans, particularly those living with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), this celebration takes on a profound significance.

SCD, a genetic blood disorder predominantly affecting individuals of African descent, presents unique challenges
that require tailored approaches to exercise and physical activity. This article delves into the world of exercise regimes suitable for mild, moderate, and severe stages of SCD, explores the physical and mental benefits of these activities, and highlights the cultural preferences and body types of African Americans to suggest exercises that resonate with this vibrant community. So, let’s embark on this journey of wellness, strength, and resilience, and discover how exercise can be a powerful ally in managing SCD.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month: The Importance of Breast Screening for Women of Color

October 17, 2023 by Barbara Lash

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, and it can affect anyone at any age. However, women of color are at an increased risk of developing breast cancer and dying from the disease.

Statistics on Breast Cancer Rates Among Women of Color

Black women have a 40% higher death rate from breast cancer than white women, even though their incidence rate is slightly lower.
Hispanic women are more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer at a later stage than white women.
Asian women have the lowest incidence rate of breast cancer but are more likely to be diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, which is a more aggressive form of the disease.

Why is Early Detection of Breast Cancer Important?

Early detection of breast cancer is essential for improving survival rates. When breast cancer is found early, it is more treatable and has a better prognosis.

How Does Breast Screening Work?

Breast screening is a series of tests that are used to detect breast cancer early. The most common breast screening tests are mammograms and clinical breast exams.

Mammograms are low-dose X-rays of the breast that can show changes in the breast tissue that may be cancer.
Clinical breast exams are physical exams of the breasts that are performed by a healthcare provider.

Breast Screening for Women of Color

Women of color should talk to their healthcare provider about their individual risk of breast cancer and develop a breast screening plan that is right for them. Some experts recommend that black women start getting mammograms at age 40, instead of the standard age of 50.

Breast Screening Event in Grand Rapids, Michigan

On October 25th, 2023, from 9am to 3pm, there will be a breast screening event at Pilgrim Rest MBC in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The event will feature the mobile mammogram unit from Trinity Health Michigan.

To schedule an appointment for a mammogram at the event, go to https://www.trinityhealthmichigan.org/classes-and-events/mobile-mammography-unit or call 855-559-7179 (Request Mobile Unit > Grand Rapids > Preferred Date & Time)

GRAAHI to Host Inaugural Health Disparities Transformational Summit

September 11, 2023 by Barbara Lash

The Grand Rapids African American Health Institute (GRAAHI) will host its inaugural Health Disparities Transformational Summit on Monday, October 9, 2023, from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Calvin College Prince Conference Center in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

The summit aims to shed light on the critical issue of health disparities and gather key stakeholders to explore solutions and create meaningful change in our most vulnerable and marginalized communities. The event will feature a keynote address by civil rights icon Xernona Clayton, as well as panel discussions on a variety of topics related to health disparities in our community. Specifically we will feature discussions about:

Infant/Maternal Health
Health Literacy
Sickle Cell Disease
Trends from GRAAHI’s Health Equity Index
Chronic Diseases: The impact of social issues of poverty, racism. Discrimination
Implicit Bias
and more

“We are excited to host this important summit and bring together a diverse group of leaders to discuss how we can address the challenges of health disparities,” said GRAAHI President and CEO Dr. Vanessa Greene. “This is an opportunity for us to share our experiences, learn from each other, and develop strategies to make a real difference in the lives of our community members.”

The summit is open to professionals, policymakers, researchers, community leaders, and advocates from diverse backgrounds. Tickets are $125 per person and includes lunch. To register, visit graahi.com/summit

Together, we can make a difference!

Rhythm Health Fair Returns August 19th

August 1, 2023 by Barbara Lash

This FREE fun-filled annual event attracts 500+ community members who come together to support healthy lifestyles.

Join the fun with these activities:

Walk around the Park to Support Health Equity
Exercise and fitness training
Mammogram van
Vaccination clinic
Blood pressure, and A1C check-up stations
The YMCA veggie van and over 30 health resource vendors
Prizes and giveaways
Music and Dance
A Kids .1K run
Free Backpacks and School Supplies
Delicious free catered lunch

To learn more go to graahi.com/rhythmrun

Thank you to our sponsors that make FREE community events like this happen:

Platinum

Corewell Health

HealthState of MI

VanAndel Foundation

Gold

Trinity Health

Meijer Corporation

Mercantile Bank

Silver

Blue Cross Blue Shield

Health & Wellness HIV Event

July 3, 2023 by Barbara Lash

Join us July 21st for a Health and Wellness Celebration designed to end the stigma around HIV.

This community health and wellness celebration will bring resources, fun and connection to the community. While ending HIV stigma will be our focus, we brought together a collection of community partners invested in the community from all ranges and reaches! With live entertainment, health services, games, and more want to celebrate GOOD HEALTH with our Grand Rapids family.

The event is FREE and no registration is required.

CROWN Act approved, led by Black Leadership Advisory Council

June 20, 2023 by Barbara Lash

GRAAHI’s director of research, Andrae Ivy serves on the board of the Black Leadership Advisory Council (BLAC). At GRAAHI we’re proud to join with BLAC in order to support legislation to break down systemic barriers. Read the full news provided by BLAC, and click HERE to read more about the organization and the 11 recommendations they have made to the State of Michigan.

Members of the Black Leadership Advisory Council (BLAC) joined Gov. Whitmer, Lt. Gov. Gilchrist and Sen. Sarah Anthony to celebrate the signing of the CROWN (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural hair) Act, which bans hair discrimination and removes barriers to Black Michiganders achieving economic prosperity.

“I am proud to sign … bipartisan legislation alongside Senator Anthony to end hair discrimination in Michigan,” said Governor Whitmer. “The CROWN Act will address hair discrimination Black Michiganders face at work, at school, and elsewhere. Black Michiganders must be able to wear their natural hairstyles however they choose and not feel forced to change or straighten their hair for interviews, work, or school. We know that 44% of Black women under the age of 34 have felt this kind of discrimination before and I am proud that we are taking an important step forward today to make our state more equitable and just. Let’s keep working together on our comprehensive Make it in Michigan vision to build a state where every Michigander can work, live, and raise a family.”

Read and share Gov. Whitmer’s press release.

Black Leadership Advisory Council Support & Recommendations

The CROWN Act was one of 11 policy recommendations BLAC offered to Gov. Whitmer in their 2022 report based on subject expert presentations and other forms of research and analysis.

“From bias in job recruitment to natural hairstyles being restricted in schools, our community is subjected to race-based discrimination every day, and the CROWN Act shows Black Michiganders – and the world – that we deserve equal opportunities and the freedom to show up as our most authentic selves,” said BLAC co-chair Dr. Donna Bell. “We applaud Gov. Whitmer and the legislature for bringing the CROWN Act to Michigan and banning hair discrimination in our state.”

“Following my work with Kent County to pass local policies to ban race-based hair discrimination, I am overjoyed to know all Black Michiganders will now receive these protections,” said BLAC co-chair Robert Womack. “The Black Leadership Advisory Council applauds our state leaders for passing this meaningful legislation and adding Michigan to the growing list of partners in this national movement.”

Black Leadership Advisory Council Support & Recommendations

Join us for the 17th Annual 5k RHYTHM RUN & HEALTH FAIR

In the fight for health equity, every penny counts.