August 8, 2024

CBHA’s Statement on International Allyship Day, 8/8

As we honor International Allyship Day on August 8, the Community Behavioral Healthcare
Association (CBHA) and our Race, Equity, and Social Justice Committee are reminded of the
profound importance of standing together with communities facing systemic barriers. Allyship is
not a passive role but an active, ongoing commitment to justice, equity, and shared humanity.

As mental health professionals and advocates, we are in a unique position to leverage our
privilege to support those who need it. Our work allows us to engage with individuals and
communities who may face multiple layers of marginalization. Being aware of how privilege
operates within these dynamics enables us to provide more empathetic and effective care.
However, understanding privilege is merely the first step toward being an effective ally. Allyship
also requires tangible actions to support groups of people disadvantaged by our current system:

1.  Advocate for Equitable Policies: Support and advocate for policies that promote equal
     access to services for marginalized communities. This can include advocacy with state
     or legislative leaders, but it can also include reviewing your organization’s internal
     policies and identifying ways to foster inclusion and equity. You can ensure that your
     practice or organization is a safe and inclusive place for all clients by using inclusive
     language, being mindful of cultural differences, and creating an environment where all
     individuals feel seen and respected. There is no level of advocacy that is too small.

2.  Educate Yourself and Others: Continuously educate yourself on the issues faced by
     disenfranchised or marginalized populations. Share this knowledge with colleagues,
     clients, and the broader community to raise awareness and promote understanding. Part
     of this work requires regularly reflecting on your own biases and assumptions and
     challenging the biases and assumptions of others. Engage in ongoing learning and
     self-improvement to ensure that your actions as an ally are grounded in humility and
     respect.

3.  Amplify Voices: Use your platform to amplify the voices of those who are often
     silenced. This can involve highlighting the work of marginalized individuals or
     organizations, sharing stories that shed light on systemic issues, or advocating for those
     who lack the access and the power to advocate for themselves or who are not in a
     position to do so.

Allyship is a powerful tool for change. On this International Allyship Day, we reaffirm our
commitment to standing with and for those who face systemic injustices. CBHA remains
dedicated to addressing social determinants of health, such as racism, homophobia, sexism,
anti-trans attitudes, and other axes of discrimination that have a profound impact on the
behavioral health of clients across the state.

We call on our partners in the industry to continue the work of promoting equity, access, and
diversity in behavioral health practices statewide. Thank you to our members, allies, and the
broader community for your ongoing support and dedication to justice, equity, and mental health
for all.

Sincerely,

Community Behavioral Healthcare Association (CBHA)
Race, Equity, & Social Justice (RESJ) Committee