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SHREVEPORT, La.\u00a0 \u2014 Shreveport native Kevin Washington and community organizer Derrick L. Henderson are launching the city\u2019s first Black Men\u2019s Health Weekend, a three-day series of events focused on mental health, wellness, leadership and community connection.<\/p>\n
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The inaugural weekend is scheduled for Thursday through Saturday in Shreveport and will feature public discussions, fitness activities and conversations centered on the health and well-being of Black men and boys.<\/p>\n
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Henderson says the event was created to provide safe spaces for honest dialogue while connecting men with practical tools for healing, growth and long-term success.<\/p>\n
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A highlight of the weekend will be the Black Men\u2019s Mental Health Forum, which is open to the public and will be livestreamed globally. Syndicated columnist, podcaster and television commentator Roland S. Martin and licensed African-centered psychologist Mwata Sankara are scheduled to lead the discussion.<\/p>\n
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Panelists are expected to include Caddo Parish District Attorney James Stewart, educator Grady Smith, mental health counselor and fitness trainer Tarrant Graham, and Henderson, a former domestic-violence nonprofit executive.<\/p>\n
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The forum will be held at the\u00a0Norma J. Blake Center at Mt. Caanan Baptist Church.\u00a0Seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.<\/p>\n
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Additional invited guests include Caddo Parish Sheriff Henry Whitehorn, Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux, Caddo Schools Superintendent Keith Burton and Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith.<\/p>\n
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Other public events planned for the weekend include \u201cSpeak Brutha Speak: A Man Talk Series \u2014 Power, Peace, and Prosperity\u201d on Friday at Vine Books & Vinyl in downtown Shreveport.<\/p>\n
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On Saturday, organizers will host a morning bootcamp titled \u201cFitness for the Mind, Body & Soul\u201d with Graham, followed by \u201cBoys and Men: Conversations on Black Manhood, Relationships, and Legacy Building\u201d at Vine Books & Vinyl.<\/p>\n
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Later that day, \u201cElevating the Crown: Barbershop Talk\u201d will take place at Bos-Man Barber College, followed by an evening gathering titled \u201cWhen the Smoke Clears: Gas Station Cigars and Conversation\u201d at Royalty Cigar & Hookah Lounge.<\/p>\n
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Henderson said he hopes the weekend becomes an annual event and inspires similar efforts across the region.<\/p>\n
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For more information, organizers ask the public to text \u201cBMMH\u201d to (318) 401-1891.<\/p>\n
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