MWSU event focuses on mental illness

By Marcus Clem

With stigmas common about those who struggle with a psychiatric disorder, especially among people of color and patients of a low socioeconomic background, a panel discussion is set to combat misinformation.

The event titled “Can You See Me? Creating a Common Language is the Recipe to End Stereotypes” will be held at 7 p.m. Friday, April 12, on the second floor of the Blum Union at Missouri Western State University. The main title, “Can You See Me?” is based on the common phenomenon in which people prefer to ignore those who are unwell and in need of mental health treatment and support, consigning them to languish within an inpatient treatment center — or jail, as is often the case.

“I know we’re in a day and time where a lot of people are dealing with their battles with mental health, and mental health is very scrutinized,” said event organizer Demetrius Chance. “There’s a lot of stereotypes and stigmas associated with it.”

About 20 panel participants will be involved in the “Can You See Me?” event, divided into four subjects: The first is focused on mental health, the second is on local business, the third is on gender roles and ethnicity and the fourth is on corrections and public safety.

Panelists include Sara Wilson, director of St. Joseph Museums, Natalie Hawn, president and CEO of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce, Mary McDonald, senior pastor of the Holsey Chapel and Cory Grayson, officer of the Missouri Department of Probation and Parole.

The host of the event is Diversed Perspectives, an awareness group created by Chance. For more information about the event, email him at dchance3@missouriwestern.edu.