Nassau County Legislator Carrié Solages (D-Valley Stream) stepped up as a key speaker at the third annual “BreaKING the Ice” Black Men’s Mental Health Conference. Held at Adelphi University on Saturday, April 27, the event saw a gathering of community leaders, scholars, and activists dedicated to making a difference.
During the panel discussion, Solages highlighted the crucial role of social services in society. He proudly discussed the Democratic Minority caucus’ successful efforts to secure a pay raise for clinicians providing essential therapy services to young children with disabilities in Nassau County.
The event also featured a notable lineup of advocates and professionals, including Erica Ford, a nationally recognized anti-violence crusader and former CEO of LIFE Camp, Inc.; Dr. Jonathan Quash, Adelphi’s executive director of the Black Male Initiative Program; Kevin Livingston, founder of 100 Suits; and New York City Councilman Kevin Riley (D-Bronx), co-chair of the Council’s Black, Latino, and Asian caucus.
“Social workers are the unsung heroes in our battle to safeguard the welfare of our children and strengthen our families,” Solages said. “Their tireless efforts are crucial in responding to the mental health crisis facing our nation. Supporting their work is not just necessary, it’s imperative for the health of our society.”
The conference, sponsored by the Wishnick Lecture in Human Services, served as a cornerstone for a daylong seminar that delved into the multifaceted challenges Black men face in accessing mental health care. Discussions ranged from policy development to practical intervention strategies, with Dr. Anthony Estreet, CEO of the National Association of Social Workers, leading as the plenary speaker.
The “BreaKING the Ice” conference, presented by the Adelphi School of Social Work and Modify Wellness, Inc., not only brought these issues to the forefront but also fostered a sense of community and shared purpose among participants, promising ongoing efforts to enhance mental health services and advocacy.