Ten artists from the Coatesville community have united to create the Coatesville Black Media Renaissance Project (CBMR) through a partnership with the Brandywine Health Foundation and funding from the Independence Public Media Foundation. Utilizing multiple artistic mediums involving film, creation, writing, photography, and design, the CBMR magnifies voices in the community and offers stories of resilience and aspiration.

These artistic mediums empower local artists to impact the Coatesville public narrative and contribute a platform for residents to influence public policies that shape long-term solutions/opportunities.

The COVID-19 pandemic placed a mental health burden on individuals across the community. Stress/anxiety from the pandemic, unanswered questions, and concern from the loss of loved ones impacted everyone in some manner. The mental health burden within the community was also evident through an economic fallout, where businesses were forced to shut down, consequently causing high levels of unemployment.

To address this public health burden, the CBMR has announced the virtual Coatesville Mental Health Panel on Wednesday, Aug. 18 from 6-7 PM. The panel will discuss the mental health impact on the individual and community.

Addressing these factors through advocacy will increase awareness and stigmatization of mental health, as well as offer opportunities for public change. The panel will be hosted by performing artist Ajene Livingston and will include visual artist Shanina Dionna and spoken word performer Heather Myers. Register today.

Learn more about the Coatesville Black Media Renaissance.