Melanin Table Talk focuses on mental health and civic power in Black communities

A coalition of Black leaders in Indianapolis hosted the second annual Melanin Table Talk on Wednesday night at the Indiana Black Expo headquarters, drawing about 100 attendees.

Panelists discussed how to improve mental health and life outcomes for Black residents in the city. Chunia Graves cited a report from the Marion County Public Health Department and said a child’s life expectancy can be predicted by their ZIP code.

The 2018 report found that non-Hispanic Black residents appear to be burdened by the highest level of health inequity when compared to other racial and ethnic groups.

“The fact that a child's life expectancy can be determined by their ZIP code speaks volumes about the degree of inequity built into the system,” Graves said. “In areas with poverty, limited resources and poor health care, young people struggle to reach their full potential.”

More than a dozen community organizations participated in the event, including Martin University and Freewheelin' Bikes. Panelists included Pastor John Girton, education advocate Erica Buchanan-Rivera and civil rights attorney Doneisha Posey.

They encouraged civic engagement through staying informed, contacting legislators and voting.

The event was organized by the Indianapolis-based community group Let Them Talk.

WFYI education reporter Sydney Dauphinais covers Marion County schools. Contact her at sdauphinais@wfyi.org.