Wellness Week 2023: Dear Mama Symposium

Join us for an enlightening symposium that celebrates the Black Matriarchy and explores the profound influence of Black motherhood especially as it relates to raising Black sons. This event brings together a dynamic panel of inspiring Black mothers and mother figures who will share their experiences, wisdom, and insights into the unique challenges, triumphs, and resilience of Black motherhood.

During this engaging symposium, we will delve into the historical significance of the Black Matriarchy, recognizing the central role that Black women have played in nurturing and leading their families and communities.

Through heartfelt discussions and personal narratives, we will examine the multi-faceted experiences of Black mothers, exploring themes such as intergenerational wisdom, self-care, navigating systemic barriers, and fostering resilience. Attendees will have the opportunity to gain profound insights into the strength, love, and determination that Black mothers bring to their families and communities.

**Note: The following event respects the importance of Black motherhood and the concept of the Black matriarchy. However, it's essential to recognize that the term "matriarchy" is often debated and can be interpreted differently. It's important to approach the topic with sensitivity, respect, and a nuanced understanding of the diverse experiences within the Black community.

• This event is FREE

• Limited spaces are available.

• All gender expressions are welcome.

• All ages may attend (minors must be accompanied by a Guardian).

• Waiver + Liability form must be completed prior to participation of event.

Featured Facilitator:

Christopher Scott is a social worker born and raised in Portland, Oregon. He has had many roles in his social work career but his expertise and focus is on working with young men of color. Christopher started a podcast in 2018 to help navigate the social work field and his own career path. You can find out more about him at hiphopsocialworker.com

This event is being held in partnership with the following organizations

:

"Trauma Informed Oregon is a statewide collaborative aimed at preventing and ameliorating the impact of adverse experiences on children, adults, and families. Trauma Informed Oregon works in partnership with providers, individuals with lived experience, and families to promote and sustain trauma informed policies and practices across physical, mental, and behavioral health systems and to disseminate promising strategies to support wellness and resilience."

:

"Portland Center Stage is the largest theater company in Portland, Oregon, and our mission is to create transcendent theatrical experiences and community programs that break down the barriers separating people. Established in 1988 as a branch of the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, the company became independent in 1994. PCS’s home is at The Armory, a historic building originally constructed in 1891. After a major renovation, The Armory opened in 2006 as the first building on the National Register of Historic Places, the first performing arts venue in the country, and the first building in Portland, to achieve a LEED Platinum rating. Each season, roughly 150,000 visitors attend PCS to enjoy a mix of classical, contemporary, and world premiere productions, along with PCS's annual JAW New Play Festival, and a variety of high-quality education and community programs."

ABOUT WELLNESS WEEK 2023:

In celebration of the Juneteenth Holiday, is honored to offer a week of holistic health activities for the local Black community. The week will include workshops and activities that promote physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health & well-being.

This year's theme is the "Black Matriarchy" - and we'll explore the ways in which Black women have contributed and continue to shape the Black community and the greater world at large.

Connect with us through our or on .

Host or Publisher Black Men's Wellness PDX