Newburgh Free Library: Black Health and Wellness Programs

This year the national theme for Black History Month is Black Health and Wellness, and the Newburgh Free Library is offering two ZOOM programs in observance of the theme.

On Wed., Feb. 9 at 6:30 p.m. Coach Wendy Petties will offer a presentation Mental Health in the Black Community. Black Americans face increased rates of mental health concerns, including anxiety and depression, as well as significant societal and economic barriers to treatment. This presentation will discuss what mental health is, stigmas surrounding mental health and mental health care in the black community, and how this narrative can be shifted by individual and collective actions. Those interested can register for Zoom link at: www.rebrand.ly/blackmentalhealth

On Thurs., Feb. 17 at 6:30 p.m. Professor of Religion Dr. Yvonne Chireau will present Root Doctors and Hoodoo Medicine: the Traditional Healing Practices of Enslaved African Americans.

Stories of Hoodoo medicine, illnesses, and healing traditions abound in black history.  This presentation will include historical accounts of Hoodoo and rootworking as forms of traditional healing that were utilized to give meaning to bodily suffering for African American people with rituals, material formulations, and the skilled repertoire of practitioners in enslaved communities. Those interested can register for Zoom link at:  www.rebrand.ly/tradhealing

Individuals can also register for programs in person, by phone (845) 563-3625 or at www.newburghlibrary.org. The Newburgh Free Library is open to the public hours are 9 a.m. - 8 p.m., Mon. -Thurs.; 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Fri. and Sat.; and 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. on Sun.

ATTENTION: Are your scholars or colleagues doing something great? Please contact the district Communications Team at communications@necsd.net. We’d love to visit your class or event and/or post your pictures and recap to highlight the amazing accomplishments throughout our district!