The month of June is the National observance for all men, and for us it is all about the Brothas. This June, Men’s Health Month is celebrating 23 years. The month is an offshoot of Men’s Health Week that was established by former President Clinton in 1994. The month is designed to raise awareness about men’s health. It also offers an opportunity to encourage men and boys to see the doctor to get checked and treated if any diseases are found.
There is a website dedicated to Men’s Health Month where you can find useful information and resources, www.menshealth.org. We know that men have higher death rates than women for all the major diseases. In the United States, men die 5 years sooner than women, but for Black men it is 7 years sooner. 7 is a blessed number, but not in this case. That is why this month should especially be a reminder for our Black men and boys. In fact, this information is the main reason why Brothas should be racing to get to the front of the line to see their doctor. Many of the causes of death are treatable if not preventable. We want your body to be fine-tuned and running like a well-oiled Mercedes Benz.
Because Colorado Black Health Collaborative (CBHC) really values our men and wants to see them live long, productive, and healthy lives, we are dedicating June to our men. CBHC has several activities focused on our men. We will be rolling out a series of stories and articles on our website www.coloradoblackhealth.org/articles/. The articles will cover many of the important health issues for men including – prostate screening, healthy weight/weight loss, mental health, erectile dysfunction and more. If you are on Facebook LIKE and FOLLOW us to access the latest information. We will be doing blood pressure screenings at three barbershops – Wright’s, World Class, and Hollywood’s, during the month of June as part of our ongoing Barbershop/Salon Health Outreach Program. The dates and locations of these events may be found on our Events Page.
We also will be hosting a four hour men’s health forum, To Sir With Love! This event is FREE and will happen on June 10th from 1-5 p.m. at the New Hope Baptist Church Family Center. Brother Jeff Fard will be the Master of Ceremony. We have a dynamic panel of men, Derrick Washington, Randy Craven, Timothy Ferraro, and John McCoy that will break down everything you need to know about being and staying well in mind, body, and soul. Mr. Charles will be out there stepping in support of our men. Two Sisters catering has planned a “manly” meal to provide healthy nourishment for the day. Brother Shead will be with them as well. Dr. Johnny Johnson will share his perspective on Black men’s health as a Black man and leader in the community. We will be keeping it real and live, but it will not all be serious. You will be able to loosen up with the CBHC Players and others while they do what they do best – Improv. We will have information on how you can get connected to resources to support you in your quest to be healthy. You don’t want to miss this highlight of CBHC’s Men’s Health Month Celebration.
Oh!, and Sistahs will be there to support our Brothas. Make sure to take part in some of the offerings this June and drop us a line about what you are doing to be healthy and well.
Just for the Health of it!
CBHC Staff
