2021-2022
Diversity, Equity
& Inclusion Series
A Discussion of Systemic Barriers within the Disability Community
SESSION II: DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION AND JUSTICE (DEI & J) AND THE INTERSECTIONALITY WITH MENTAL HEALTH
Friday, Feb. 25, 2022
12:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Live on Facebook
& Zoom
Please join us on Friday, Feb. 25, 2022 from 12:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. for the second session of the Training Alumni Association's DEI series. A team of expert presenters will focus on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice (DEI & J) as it relates to the intersectionality of MENTAL HEALTH, a relevant topic for this unprecedented season we are traversing. ASL Interpreters and Captioning will be available.
“DEI & J and the Intersectionality with Mental Health”
In this presentation, presenters will discuss the many faces and characteristics of diversity, while learning how diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice impact our relationships with individuals who differ from us and our mental health. Authentically bringing traditionally excluded individuals or groups into decision-making empowers them to participate fully in a deeper relationship. It helps to tailor mental health and medical services and supports to meet the preferences and unique needs of each person. It is especially relevant now, as we are having hard conversations about what it means to be “different” in our homes, communities, and workplaces. This presentation will include a diverse group of speakers, including a licensed mental health professional.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Attendees will learn more about:
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What are diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice and why they are important?
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The intersection of mental health and other disabilities and the stigma and discrimination associated with them.
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The research regarding the negative impact discrimination has on an individual's mental health.
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Personal and societal bias and how it affects organizations and individuals.
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Equity and empowerment – how to advocate on your behalf or on behalf of a group or organization.
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How diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice enrich the workplace, community, or group.
Meet the Presenters
Elizabeth Bouldin-Clopton
VOCAL, Network Program Director
Elizabeth Bouldin-Clopton (they/them) is a seasoned program director with many years of experience in nonprofit management. Their previous experience includes managing large grant projects, accreditation and certification, advocacy, and leading diverse teams. They are a passionate advocate for peer-supported mental health recovery and developing and supporting infrastructure for peer support and education. They have worked in community building, workforce development, and have done extensive work on diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice initiatives.
They enjoy public speaking and reaching out to diverse populations for input and discussion. Elizabeth has testified before committees and subcommittees during sessions of the General Assembly. They are a Certified Workforce Development Professional and hold certification as a life coach. Elizabeth is a WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan) facilitator, and works to create community alliances and partnerships to leverage resources and support. They are excited about the work that VOCAL (Virginia Organization of Consumers Asserting Leadership) is doing to support and advocate for peer-supported recovery.
Kristen Lennox, MSW, LCSW, CTRP-C
Voices for Virginia’s Children, Advocacy and Engagement Manager
Kristin Lennox (she/her) is the Advocacy and Engagement Manager at Voices for Virginia’s Children. She is responsible for identifying advocacy opportunities; developing traditional, digital, and grassroots engagement and advocacy strategies; and mobilizing advocates to support policy priorities.
Kristin has 5+ years experience providing community-based mental health services, predominantly responding to crises or traumatic events with young people (2 – 17 years old). She has delivered global workshops and trainings on themes of trauma-informed care, healing centered engagement, and de-escalation. Kristin is passionate about increasing equity in community resources and mental health access for youth and families in Virginia.
Kristin earned her Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University, and is currently an Adjunct Instructor with VCU’s School of Social Work. She is a practicing Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Trauma and Resilience Practitioner.
Live Zoom Meeting
Feb. 25, 2022
12:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
This conversation will also be streamed live on the Virginia Board for People with Disabilities' Facebook page.
facebook.com/vaboard
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Subcommittee
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Dr. Nicci Dowd, Chair
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Ms. Cheryl Lloyd, Co-Chair
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Ms. Christine Germeyer
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Ms. Amanda Forry Fino
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Ms Catherine Childers
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Mr. Josh "Bishop" Parker
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Ms. Angel Barnhill
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Ms. Sonja Lassister
