South Queens Women’s March (SQWM) recognizes that mental health challenges deeply impact South Asian and Indo-Caribbean communities, often shaped by stigma, cultural expectations, and limited access to culturally responsive care. We are committed to creating safe, affirming spaces where individuals can learn, reflect, and build tools to support both their own mental well-being and that of their communities.

As part of this commitment, we are hosting “Building Strengths for My Mind: Breaking the Shame and Stigma Surrounding Mental Illness to Achieve Health and Wellness,” a community training facilitated by mental health advocate Antoine Craigwell. This workshop will center culturally grounded conversations and practical strategies for healing and support, while creating space for open dialogue and shared learning.

Participants will engage in discussions around ancestral memories and intergenerational trauma, stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as self-harm and suicide, along with ways to care for themselves and support others. Through this gathering, we aim to continue building a community where mental health is prioritized, stigma is challenged, and collective care is strengthened.