When discussing the ills and disparities within the African-American community, such issues as violence, drugs, poverty, and emotional, physical, and spiritual health are often discussed. When systematic concerns aren’t being questioned as a barrier, the accountability of the men often comes to the forefront. However, African-American men’s trauma is often overlooked and not addressed. When African American men suffer, (directly or indirectly) he passes his trauma on to the women and children in their lives and the cycle pain continues and community suffers tenfold. Without addressing the trauma it’s difficult to fully experience a healthy life even if that is your goal.

In 2008, we started our efforts to address increasing disparities confronting African American men and their families with a broad range of projects and strategies. Which include promoting educational and project based trauma informed initiatives that have focused on community healing.  In 2009, the conference started offering an opportunity to create an environment for collaboration, wellness, “compassionate accountability” and community based solutions in partnership with the community and services providers. We realize that a stronger, thriving African American community improves the health of the community and the society as a whole.