Jan. 25, 2022
Forum participants today listened to stories describing how meetings over the last year among women focused on women’s overall health have led to a multi-pronged effort, first to recognize leaders in women’s health, and second to provide women ways to find the support they need to lead healthful lives. The session was led by Beatrice Thompson.
Thompson said women, and particularly Black women, are struggling, often in silence. Thompson credited the leadership of the Mecklenburg County Health Department’s Cheryl Emanuel for gathering the group together, and the late T.D. Elder, the first Black nurse employed by the Health Department, for inspiring the search for ways to support women.
Thereasea Delerine Clark Elder died in 2021 at age 93. A WFAE remembrance called her “a leader, healer and transformer of Charlotte.” Many women, including a number attending this morning’s Forum, called her Mentor.
The group plans an institute named for Madie Maddox Smith, who was the health department’s first Black supervisor. During the session, Thompson recounted stories of the barriers Madie Smith overcame.
Thompson said that discussion among the women brought together by Emanuel led to a loose-knit group that the women have called TRIBES: Talented, Resilient, Intelligent, Beautiful, Encouraging Sisters. As a self-initiating Women’s Health Equity Planning Committee, the group plans three events in March: a 21-day health challenge beginning March 1; a dinner and awards ceremony March 24 to celebrate the Madie Maddox Smith Women’s Health Equity Institute; and on March 31, “Women of Color Health Conversation,” a four-hour virtual conversation modeled on the Tribe’s own meetings in which participants will share their experiences and needs, and support one another.
“We will leave no woman behind,” Thompson said. “We will let no woman suffer by herself, knowing that there is no one there for her. We are there for her as a Tribe – mentally, emotionally, spiritually and physically – and we ask you to support us in this effort.”
Dr. Jodi Turner explained a virtual event titled “The Power of ME – Moments of Encouragement,” to be held virtually this Thursday, Jan. 27 at 7 p.m. Speaker is Attorney Coré S. Cotton. Zoom registration is here. Tribe member Nyja M. Grant sent this from the registration page: “Coré S. Cotton is a seasoned attorney, Grammy-winning recording artist, songwriter, author, life coach, and CEO. Her mission is to empower women across diversity dimensions to break free of boxes and own their personal and professional trajectories through passion-driven lives without limitations.”
From the chat box
Information added to the morning chat box included the following:
Jennifer De La Jara: Next Monday the 31st at 5:30, the Charlotte Community Think Tank is hosting an Employment Information Session. CMS is looking to hire all positions and the event will have HR staff present to answer any questions you may have. Please help us spread the word.
Cynthia Wallace: New Rural Project is deep canvassing with Front Porch Conversations in Anson County this Saturday. Join us and/or spread to word to folks you know in Anson! Details. To learn more about New Rural Project please find us at our website, on social media, or email me at cynthia@newruralproject.org.
Trevor M. Fuller: Good morning, Forum! This is Trevor Fuller. It’s great be back with you. After serving as your Mecklenburg County Commissioner at Large for 8 years, I am excited to announce that I am running for the North Carolina State Senate in the new District 42! You can find out about our campaign at www.fuller4nc.com. Thank you.
Nyja M. Grant: You are invited to another Convening Our TRIBES program with guest speaker Coré S. Cotton, J.D. as she engaged us all with THE POWER OF Moments of Encouragement presentation. Coré S. Cotton is a seasoned attorney, Grammy-winning recording artist, songwriter, author, life coach, and CEO. Her mission is to empower women across diversity dimensions to break free of boxes and own their personal and professional trajectories through passion-driven lives without limitations. Registration Link.
Rashaan Peek: Black Women’s Health Imperative website. Survey for grassroots nonprofits here.
Lisa Ellsworth: Democratic Women of Mecklenburg County meets 2nd Wed of every month. DonnaMarie Woodson is the new President. 612-991-0257 donnamarie93@gmail.com
Dr. Yolonda Holmes: Member, Mecklenburg County Women’s Advisory Board, e-mail at yondholmes@gmail.com.