As Black Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month wraps up, a powerful new initiative in Indianapolis is using the art of film to open up honest conversations about mental wellness in the Black community. Titled “Lights, Camera, Healing”, the campaign blends storytelling with community healing, encouraging Black men to share emotions, embrace therapy, and redefine masculinity.
The program is a collaboration between Heartland Film, Kennedy King Memorial Initiative, and Keep Indiana Learning, with support from local leaders and mental health professionals.
How Film Is Changing the Conversation
“Lights, Camera, Healing” screens thought-provoking short films that reflect the realities of trauma, stress, resilience, and emotional struggle among Black men. After each screening, panel discussions create space for raw, authentic dialogue on:
- The stigma of mental health in Black culture
- Generational trauma and healing
- The importance of emotional vulnerability
- The power of professional therapy
“Representation matters,” said event organizer Tasha Jones. “When Black men see themselves reflected in these stories, it creates permission to speak, to feel, to heal.”
Creating Safe Spaces for Vulnerability
Held in various community venues, including Living Room Theaters and schools, the events have drawn powerful testimonies from participants who say they finally feel seen and supported.
The project’s goal is not just to increase awareness, but to normalize therapy and make mental health care more accessible and culturally relevant for Black men and boys across Indiana.
Why It Matters: The Mental Health Crisis in Black Communities
National data shows that:
- Black men are less likely to seek therapy due to cultural stigma and access barriers
- Suicide rates among young Black men have risen sharply in recent years
- Lack of representation in healthcare providers contributes to distrust
This initiative seeks to bridge that gap—using film as a tool for empowerment.
Key Takeaways:
- Indianapolis-based initiative blends film, mental health advocacy, and community engagement
- Aims to combat stigma and encourage Black men to open up emotionally
- Events include screenings, live discussions, and local resource sharing
- Sparks broader dialogue around healing through culture and storytelling
Source: WRTV – Lights, Camera, Healing: New Indy Initiative Using Film to Address Mental Health
