DBGM Looks at Suicide and Depression Among LGBTs of Color

Depressed Black Gay Men Inc. (DBGM) invites the community to address mental health during pride with their June 18 panel, "In My Mind: Facing Depression & Suicide Affecting LGBT People of Color." This free event will be held at the Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz Educational and Memorial Center.

"How can we truly take pride, celebrate pride, be proud, in this 'Pride' month, if haven't examined the issues which cause us to suffer in silence, to begin to heal so that we could really celebrate and be proud?" ask organizers in their invitation.

The evening's discussion will be moderated by renowned community activist and comedian Buttaflysoul, with panelists drawn from across the LGBT people of color community

"In our community, in the Black and Black gay/same-gender-loving, or however one identifies community, depression and suicide are real!" they continue. "In the last several weeks these communities were rocked by suicides. One suicide is one too many; each person has a place in the human fabric and when that person is removed, especially by his/her own hands, then the fabric is the worse for and bears the responsibility for that loss."

They invite all to join them on June 18 as they continue to raise awareness of the issues contributing to depression and suicide of LGBT people of color, so that no one feels isolated, abandoned, or cast off, but instead will know that he/she is not alone>

"Together, let's listen and discuss, as members of the Black and Latino gay community, we shine a light and raise awareness of the many underlying factors (known or hidden) contributing to depression and suicidal thoughts, attempts and tragically, completion," say organizers. "Instead of asking why did someone commit suicide, let's ask ourselves, 'How did I fail him?'"

The discussion will be moderated by renowned community activist and comedian, Buttaflysoul and will feature panelists from the Black and Latino gay communities.

"Join us for a real conversation! Let's get the truth out! Let's stop hiding behind excuses! Let's face what's REALLY bothering us!," said organizers.

"In My Mind: Facing Depression & Suicide Affecting LGBT People of Color" will be held at 7 p.m. on Thursday, June 18 at the Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz Educational and Memorial Center,
3940 Broadway @165th St. (Subways: A,C & #1 trains uptown to 168th St)