Conceptualizing Disability

To advance equity for all, we must understand numerous social identities and their impacts on individuals, families, communities, organizations, and society at large. In this challenge, we focus on building an understanding of disability, a social identity. This understanding must be integrated into an intersectional framework that emphasizes the ways in which individual social identities intersect and overlap, and the impact of these intersections.

Consider how you define disability. You’re not alone if you found this challenging. People often think about disability as a medical diagnosis, health condition, or set of symptoms.

A more robust definition used by the CDC emphasizes that disability has three dimensions: impairment, activity limitation, and participation restrictions.

How we define and think about disability more broadly has tangible impacts on our lives and our world. Models of disability provide frameworks that can help us understand our ways of thinking and consider how our conceptualization of disability impacts personal actions, organizations, and systems.

There are many models of disability. Arguably, the three most dominant are the moral, medical, and social models of disability. A major difference between models of disability is the meaning of disability, namely whether disability is a deficit or a social construct describing human diversity.

Disability Pride & the disabled community

The social model of disability nourished the disability pride movement, which is characterized by disabled people understanding, valuing, and connecting with their disabled identity.

The disabled community is expansive and internally diverse. There are many types of disabilities; a single type of disability can impact different people in different ways; and the ways in which one disability impacts one person can change over time. Additionally, the disabled community includes individuals of all ages, races, ethnicities, genders, socioeconomic backgrounds, sexualities, religions, birthplaces, and living places.

Disability pride is growing within the community, even as ongoing ableist oppression and discrimination continues. To learn more about Disability Pride in Spokane, check out our Pathways Forward event with Inland Northwest Disability Experience here.

IF YOU HAVE...

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CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO of Imani Barbarin, who shares her journey towards self-acceptance & how she advocates for greater inclusivity & understanding of disability.	and	CHECK OUT THIS BLOG that discusses 3 models that underlie assumptions about disability, highlighting the need to shift away from a medical model.	and	CHECK OUT THIS PODCAST about a mother-daughter duo that share the same physical disability as they talk about their relationship & their journey into activism.

In Day 1, we developed our understanding of disability as a social identity, challenged our conceptualization of disability, covered some bases of the disabled community, and considered ways in which individuals with disabilities may experience their own identity. In this challenge, we discuss ableism, the system of oppression that marginalizes disabled people, and movements against this oppression, including the Disability Rights Movement and the Disability Justice Movement.

Ableism

Ableism is generally understood to be discrimination and prejudice related to disability. Ableism hinges upon the belief that typical abilities are superior and the assumption that disabled people require “fixing.”As a system of oppression, ableism inherently groups people into categories and assigns value-based meaning to these categories so that entire groups of people are “less than.” The most basic categories created by ableism include “normal/non-disabled” and “disabled,” but more nuanced categories exist as well such as “more disabled” and “less disabled.”

Ableism: a system of assigning value to peoples' bodies and minds based on societally constructed ideas of normalcy, productivity, desirability, intelligence, excellence, and fitness. These constructed ideas are deeply rooted in eugenics, anti-Blackness, misogyny, colonialism, imperialism, and capitalism. - working definition of ableism by Talila Lewis

This definition emphasizes the intersectional nature of systems of oppression, including ableism, and recognizes that actual and perceived disabilities impact individuals’ experiences with ableism. This systemic oppression leads to people and society determining peoples' value based on their culture, age, language, appearance, religion, birth or living place, "health/wellness," and/or their ability to satisfactorily  re/produce, "excel," and "behave." You do not have to be disabled to experience ableism.

Like other types of discrimination and prejudice, ableism can be explicit or implicit. In the early 2000s, ableism was identified as one of the strongest and most common forms of explicit and implicit bias among types of bias studied, including race, gender, sexuality, and weight bias. This explicit and implicit bias in favor of people without disabilities was present and significant even among people with disabilities. This is one manifestation of internalized ableism.

Disability Movements

Ableism is woven throughout US history and current society. For decades, disabled people have been leading coordinated efforts against ableist oppression. These include the Disability Rights Movement and Disability Justice. 

The Disability Rights Movement gained momentum in the 1960s and led to the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990. Prior to this movement, there were no legal repercussions when disabled people were mistreated. Establishing civil rights for disabled people increased opportunities for disabled people to participate in society.

Recognizing the need for coordinated efforts against ableist oppression to be intersectional, center the most impacted, and honor the diversity within the disabled community, a collective of disabled queer women of color, including Patty Berne and Mia Mingua, began to discuss a 'second wave' of disability rights. These discussions led to Disability Justice being coined in 2005. Disability Justice builds on the approach from the disability rights movement by taking a more comprehensive, intersectional approach to securing rights for disabled people.

Disability Justice offers a vision for the future and a pathway to get there. “There has always been resistance to all forms of oppression, as we know in our bones that there have also always been disabled people visioning a world where we flourish, a world that values and celebrates us in all our beauty.”

if you HAVE...

15 Minutes	and	20 Minutes	and	45 Minutes
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CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO to briefly learn the history of the Disability Rights Movement & why it still matters today.	and	CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE about confronting ableism as a critical step toward achieving social justice & fostering inclusivity.	and	CHECK OUT THIS PODCAST to understand the intersections of ableism & racism in the US, & the historic civil rights legislation governing both.

Access to Housing

Although overt discrimination in the housing market is no longer legal, there are still systemic barriers that prevent marginalized people from building wealth through homeownership or achieving housing stability through the rental market. Disparities in the appraisals of homes owned by people of color, racial disparities in evictions, and the refusal of landlords to rent to people with housing choice vouchers all work to ensure that communities remain segregated in the same way as when redlining was still legal.

Access to housing in Spokane, like in many other cities, is hindered by several significant barriers that affect both renters and potential homebuyers. Between 2012 and 2018, the median household income increased 21.2%, while from 2010 to 2020, the median home price increased by 47%, from $174,000 to $256,000. Between 2010 and 2020, Washington State grew by over 931,000 people, with an influx of over 500,000 people from out of state. In that time, Spokane’s population increased by over 7%, which keeps Spokane as the state’s second largest city.

One of the most significant barriers is the rising cost of housing in Spokane. The city has experienced increased demand for housing, which has driven up rents and home prices. This puts affordable housing out of reach for many residents, especially low-income individuals and families. Spokane also faces a shortage of affordable options; existing affordable housing units are often in high demand with long waiting lists, making it difficult for individuals and families with limited incomes to secure stable housing.

Many residents do not earn enough to afford the increasing housing costs, leading to a high rate of cost-burdened households. This means that a substantial portion of their income goes toward housing expenses, leaving little for other essentials. Spokane, like many urban areas, grapples with homelessness. Homelessness becomes both a barrier to accessing stable housing and a result of these barriers.

Zoning regulations and land use policies can restrict the development of affordable housing options in certain areas, limiting housing choices for residents. This can lead to residential segregation and disparities in access to amenities and services.

Redlining

Because wealth has been systemically stripped from communities of color, Black and Indigenous people in particular are more likely to experience homelessness because their networks are less likely to have the resources to support them if they face unemployment, intimate partner violence (IPV), a medical emergency, or another financially destabilizing crisis.

The practice of redlining, the systematic denial of services such as mortgages, insurance loans, and other financial services to residents of certain areas, was used to segregate communities based on race or ethnicity and was not outlawed until 1968. Violence was also routinely used to disrupt thriving Black communities as well as retaliate against Black families who moved into white neighborhoods. Redlining prevented African Americans in particular from building generational wealth through home ownership and ensured that neighborhoods would remain segregated even today.

Addressing these barriers to housing access in Spokane requires a multi-faceted approach that includes policies to increase affordable housing stock, improve tenant protections, combat discrimination, and provide supportive services to those in need. Collaboration between our government agencies, non-profit organizations, and the private sector is essential to making housing more accessible and equitable in the city.

Learn more about Spokane's history of redlining here.

IF YOU HAVE...

5 Minutes	and	10 Minutes	and	30 Minutes
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CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE about the series of bills Washington lawmakers passed to reform housing regulations & boost housing supply for renters & homebuyers.	and	CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO about wealth inequality in the US, highlighting the difference between our perception of inequality & actual numbers.	and	CHECK OUT THIS PODCAST about the growing issue in Yakima in Central Washington & the efforts to build permanent supportive housing.

In Day 3 of the Racial Justice Challenge, we talked about some discriminatory housing practices. Recognizing the interconnectedness of race, gender, and homelessness is crucial, as addressing homelessness effectively necessitates confronting the role of racism in housing access. Even after the abolition of redlining, discriminatory lending practices have continued to disadvantage minority communities. Subprime lending, for example, disproportionately targeted Black and Hispanic borrowers with higher interest rates and less favorable loan terms, leading to a higher risk of foreclosure during the housing crisis. Real estate agents and property owners have historically engaged in steering practices, where they guide individuals or families towards or away from certain neighborhoods based on their race or ethnicity. This has perpetuated segregation by directing people of color into specific areas and discouraging them from moving into predominantly white neighborhoods. Gentrification, often driven by predominantly white, middle-class individuals moving into historically minority neighborhoods, displaces long-time residents and businesses due to rising property values and rents. This can push out low-income minority residents and disrupt the social fabric of these communities.

According to Forbes, the criminalization of unhoused individuals costs taxpayers a substantial $83,000 per person per year. Unfortunately, many communities opt to perpetuate this criminalization rather than addressing the underlying causes, which include racism, unaffordable housing, gender-based violence, homophobia, transphobia, and insufficient mental health care.

The LGBTQ+ community has long confronted discrimination in the housing market, with the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) only recently pledging to investigate discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity under the Fair Housing Act in 2021. Prior to this, 21 states permitted such discrimination, continuing to hinder LGBTQ+ individuals, especially LGBTQ+ people of color, from accessing stable housing.

Efforts to address housing discrimination and promote fair housing practices have been ongoing, including anti-discrimination laws, government programs, and community initiatives. However, the effects of historical racism in housing persist, and addressing them requires a comprehensive and sustained effort to promote housing equity and eliminate discrimination in housing markets.

If you have...

5 Minutes	and	5 Minutes	and	45 Minutes
	and		and
CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO that examines the intersection of intimate partner violence (IPV), racism & homelessness.	and	CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE about how hip-hop was a response to redlining and how we can create more inclusive communities.	and	CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO about Black communities that were destroyed by white supremacist terrorism.

• BONUS: Read this blog post from YWCA Spokane explaining why the 2020 Census is so important. It includes resources to support your engagement.

_{Photo © Ken Stein. Courtesy of The Oakland Tribune © 2019.}

In Week 1, we unearthed some issues found at the intersection of disability and housing. Accessible and appropriate housing is a fundamental human right, yet it remains a barrier for many people with disabilities that is further magnified when race and ethnicities come into play.

Some key takeaways:

Discrimination | People of color with disabilities are at a higher risk of housing discrimination. Landlords and housing providers may discriminate against them based on both their race and disability, leading to limited housing options, higher rental rates, or outright denials of housing opportunities. The Fair Housing Act in the US prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability, but violations still occur.

Affordability | People with disabilities often face financial challenges related to healthcare costs and potential employment limitations. Unfortunately, affordable housing is in short supply, and people with disabilities may struggle to find housing that fits their income.

Neighborhood Segregation | Historical patterns of racial segregation persist in many communities. Minority populations are often concentrated in neighborhoods with limited resources, including inadequate housing options. These segregated neighborhoods lack accessible public transportation, healthcare facilities, and educational opportunities. Housing should not isolate people with disabilities from their communities. Inclusivity in housing design can foster a sense of belonging and prevent isolation, improving mental and emotional well-being.

Transportation | Access to transportation is a crucial consideration when it comes to housing. Living in an area with accessible public transportation can greatly enhance one's ability to work, socialize, and access essential services.

Environmental Factors | Communities with higher percentages of racial and ethnic minorities may also face environmental hazards, such as pollution or substandard housing conditions. These environmental factors can contribute to health disparities and increase the likelihood of disability within these communities.

Legislation & Policy | The role of legislation and policy is vital in addressing these issues. Countries often have specific laws and regulations aimed at ensuring accessible and affordable housing for individuals with disabilities. However, enforcement and compliance varies widely.

Efforts to combat housing disparities should include anti-racist policies that address systemic racism in housing markets. This may involve measures to enforce fair housing laws, expand affordable housing options in diverse neighborhoods, and promote equitable access to resources.

_{Courtesy of San Francisco Examiner collection © The Regents of the University of California, The Bancroft Library, University of California, Berkeley}

Advocacy & Awareness | Advocacy groups and disability organizations play a significant role in raising awareness about housing issues and pushing for positive changes. They work to ensure that the voices and needs of people with disabilities are heard and addressed by policymakers and housing providers.

This intersection is a complex and multifaceted issue. Addressing these challenges requires a collective effort from governments, service providers, advocacy groups, community members, and society as a whole to ensure that individuals have equal access to safe, suitable, and affordable housing options.

Anti-Asian racism is on the rise, increasing by over 300% during the pandemic. Journalists, including Connie Chung, remark on the lack of media representation of these crimes. However, the erasure of Asians and Asian Americans go beyond just the lack of reporting in media. The erasure of Asians and Asian Americans is threaded throughout the history of America, including lack of discussion in school curriculum of Chinese Coolies and Filipino and Japanese slaves during the slave trade to the legislated exclusion of the Chinese in the Exclusion Act of 1882. 

Raids throughout towns and cities along the west coast led to thousands of Chinese workers and families being pushed out of their homes and forced onto ships or trains out of their cities in the 1880s. Buildings were razed as mobs composed of hundreds of white residents forced Chinese residents out of these cities. Chinatowns were burned down and forgotten. 

This erasure continued, with more immigration laws enacted in the 1920s, such as the Asian Exclusion Act. Spokane’s own Chinatown/Japanese Alley became a ghost town during the depression and then was destroyed for parking lots and the World’s Fair in 1974. 

These legislative acts, lack of acknowledgement in history, and removal of ethnic enclaves have had a huge impact on how Asians and Asian Americans are viewed and how they experience life in America.

The Model Minority Myth

The Model Minority Myth suggests that those of Asian descent are the perfect immigrant, having come from a foreign place and settled in America without difficulty. The myth proposes that Asians are achieving economic stability and success and do so without complaint. This myth benefits white supremacy by creating racial triangulation; Black communities are compared to Asian communities, kept in competition with each other with Asian successes used against Black communities to dismiss their protests against racism. The myth is then used to keep Asians quiet, with any expressions of concern considered complaining and stepping out of line from their role as a "Model Minority."

The Model Minority Myth can lead to many Asian Americans feeling extraordinary pressure to succeed which can lead to negative self-talk and self-doubt. In even more extreme cases, the intense pressure some Asian Americans feel can lead to depression. Suicide is the second-leading cause of death for Asian-American women age 15-24. Asian American college students have higher rates of attempting suicide than those in other groups.

The challenges brought up by the Model Minority Myth continue as students head into their careers. “Research has found that Asians face a double bind at work: If they act more dominant, they will be less liked, but if they do not assert dominance, they will not be seen as leaders." Consequently, the stereotypes of being quiet and submissive are harmful when looking to be leaders in their field of work. “A 2016 analysis found that Asian workers make up 5.8% of the federal workforce, but only 3.5% of senior roles. The following year, a review found that Asian Americans were the least likely racial group of all to be promoted into management or executive roles." The stereotypes surrounding the personality of Asian people are preventing Asian Americans from reaching the highest leadership roles in their places of work. 

This systemic erasure means there is also a lack of representation of Asians, especially of Central and West Asian communities, in media, in elected offices and leadership, in mental health industries, and in law enforcement. This affects the pathways Asians imagine for themselves and how they are treated, or ignored, in those and many other industries. This erasure creates great harm on their mental health which can then lead to other health problems. 

The Model Minority Myth groups all people who live on a continent together ignoring the fact that there is so much diversity in Asia. This also adds complications to recruitment and hiring data for workplaces. According to Joyce Chiao, the founder and CEO of a company guiding conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion, the grouping of all Asian people into one can make it “really hard to see who is represented and who is not." This can result in the skewed representation of Asian Americans in the workforce. The true diversity of the Asian American population in the United States is ignored when all of the unique ethnic and cultural groups are represented with one label.

IF YOU HAVE...

5 Minutes	and	10 Minutes	and	1 hour
	and		and
CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE that explores the erasure of Asian establishments in Spokane.	and	CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO on the act that made it illegal for Chinese workers to come to America and for Chinese nationals to become US citizens.	and	CHECK OUT THIS PODCAST about the erasure and exclusion of Asians in the Pacific Northwest.

Mental health is a fundamental aspect of overall well-being, yet the US faces a stark reality: significant disparities in access to mental health care and outcomes. While it is often said that mental health knows no boundaries, the truth is that access to quality care and mental health outcomes vary greatly among different racial, ethnic, socioeconomic, and geographic groups in the country. Addressing mental health disparities requires multiple approaches.

Addressing Disparities

Racial/Ethnic Disparities | Black, Latino, and Native Americans face disparities in access to mental health care. They are less likely to receive mental health treatment compared to white Americans. Certain populations, like Native Americans and LGBTQ+ individuals, experience higher rates of suicide, in part due to mental health disparities. Historical injustices, such as forced displacement of Indigenous communities and racial segregation, are ongoing and continue to affect mental health outcomes.

Stigma surrounding mental health issues is also more pronounced in some communities and cultures, discouraging individuals from seeking help.

Socioeconomic Disparities | Lower-income individuals often lack access to affordable mental health care services. Lack of insurance coverage or underinsurance can prevent individuals from accessing mental health care. Untreated mental health issues can lead to physical health problems, increasing healthcare costs.

Poor mental health can perpetuate the cycle of poverty. Limited access to educational and employment opportunities exacerbates disparities, while poverty and financial insecurity can lead to chronic stress, a known risk factor for mental health disorders.

Geographic Disparities | Rural areas often have fewer mental health professionals and resources, leading to inadequate access to care. A shortage of mental health professionals in these areas limits access. Telehealth has the potential to bridge some of these gaps, but not everyone has internet access, a computer, or other compatible electronic device.

LGBTQ+ Disparities | LGBTQ+ individuals often face higher rates of mental health issues due to discrimination and lack of acceptance. Those who lack access to mental health care often suffer in silence, leading to decreased overall quality of life. Culturally competent care for this population is essential.

Exploring Solutions

Destigmatization | Promote mental health awareness campaigns to combat stigma and encourage open conversations about mental health.

Accessible Care | Invest in mental health infrastructure, expand insurance coverage, and increase the number of mental health professionals, particularly in underserved areas. Train healthcare providers to understand and address the unique needs of diverse communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals and people of color.

Early Intervention | Implement programs in schools and workplaces that promote mental health and provide early intervention for those at risk.

Community Resources | Support grassroots organizations that provide mental health resources and support to marginalized communities.

Mental health disparities in the US are a complex and deeply rooted issue that cannot be ignored. To build a more equitable and mentally healthy society, it is essential to address the underlying causes of these disparities and implement comprehensive solutions that ensure access to quality mental health care for all. By doing so, we can work towards a future where mental health disparities are no longer a hidden crisis but a problem of the past.

IF YOU HAVE...

5 Minutes	and	15 Minutes	and	20 minutes
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CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO that highlights how microaggressions in the workplace impact Black womens' mental health.	and	CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO for one therapist's explanation on how our bodies can carry racial trauma.	and	CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE on how racism contributes to poor mental health outcomes among Black students in higher education.

The world of music is often celebrated as a universal language, connecting people across cultures. However, racism casts a shadow over the creative process and limits opportunities for artists of color. Its roots in the US have a long history of segregation and discrimination. During the early 20th century, Black musicians faced immense barriers, including the exclusion from mainstream venues and unequal pay. The jazz and blues pioneers of the era, such as Louis Armstrong and Bessie Smith, had to battle systemic racism to share their art with the world.

Systemic Racism in Music

Systemic racism within the music industry perpetuates a cycle of unequal opportunities, limiting the exposure and recognition of artists of color. One of the most evident manifestations is the underrepresentation of artists of color, especially in genres dominated by white artists. This restricts artistic expression and reinforces harmful stereotypes. In some cases, artists of color are tokenized or pigeonholed into specific genres or roles, limiting their creative freedom. This not only stifles their individuality but also commodifies their identity for profit.

Structural inequalities within the industry make it difficult for artists of color to access opportunities, secure record deals, or receive fair compensation. These barriers include biased hiring practices, unequal access to resources, and limited support for artists from marginalized communities.

Cultural appropriation involves the adoption of elements of one culture by members of another culture, often without acknowledgment or respect. This is evident when non-Black artists profit from Black music and style, often without giving proper credit or reparations. Artists of color frequently receive lower compensation than their white counterparts, despite equal or superior talent and success. This wage gap perpetuates economic inequality within the industry. Additionally, leadership positions are still predominantly occupied by white individuals and lack of diversity in executive roles contributes to the perpetuation of systemic racism.

A Way Forward

Representation Matters. Promote and support artists of color by listening to and purchasing their music. Diversify your playlists. Attend concerts and shows by artists from diverse backgrounds.

Challenge Stereotypes. Recognize and reject harmful stereotypes perpetuated by the industry. Encourage discussions about cultural appropriation and the importance of respecting artistic influences.

Support Diversity in Leadership. Advocate for diversity in executive roles within the industry. Encourage organizations to implement inclusive hiring practices and provide mentorship opportunities for marginalized individuals.

Educate and Engage. Engage in conversations about racism in the music industry and educate yourself on the experiences of artists of color. Promote dialogue and awareness within your communities.

Racism in the music industry is a deeply entrenched problem with a long history. By acknowledging its existence, understanding its impact, and actively working towards change, we can strive for a future where the beauty of music truly knows no boundaries, where all voices are heard, and where artists of every background can thrive and inspire. 

IF YOU HAVE...

5 Minutes	and	20 Minutes	and	1 hour
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CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE that examines the complex debate surrounding music as cultural appreciation or appropriation.	and	CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE featuring a roundtable among Asian American & Pacific Islander musicians in the industry.	and	CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO of Academy Award winner & Cree singer-songwriter Buffy Sainte-Marie & singer-songwriter/mental health expert, Jewel.

Music is not just a form of art; it's a powerful tool that enriches lives, fosters creativity, and stimulates cognitive development. It allows students to develop skills they can use for the rest of their lives. However, not all students have access to music education and the mental and emotional benefits that it can provide. Ensuring equitable access to music education is important and it’s critical for students to see diverse voices represented in their music curriculum.

Music education has been linked to improved cognitive skills in students. Learning to read music, play an instrument, or sing enhances memory, attention, and problem-solving abilities. Studies have shown that students who engage with music tend to perform better in mathematics and language arts.

It provides a unique outlet for emotional expression. Students are able to channel their feelings, whether joy, sadness, or anger, into a creative and constructive form. This emotional release can be especially important during the turbulent teenage years.

Numerous studies suggest that students involved in music programs tend to have higher standardized test scores and better academic performance. Music fosters discipline, time management, and perseverance—all qualities that are beneficial in all areas of life.

Music also provides a platform for students to build confidence and self-esteem. Whether performing in front of an audience or mastering a challenging piece, students gain a sense of accomplishment and self-worth through their musical endeavors.

Music has the remarkable ability to reduce stress and anxiety. Playing or listening to music can be a healthy coping mechanism for students dealing with the pressures of academics and adolescence.

Participating in a school band or choir requires students to work together as a team. This collaborative experience teaches them valuable interpersonal skills, including cooperation, communication, and compromise.

Music is a reflection of culture and history. Access to music education exposes students to a rich tapestry of musical traditions from around the world. This helps them appreciate diversity, connect with their heritage, and develop a global perspective.

Music is a universal language that transcends boundaries and enriches lives. Access to music education for students is not just about creating the next generation of professional musicians; it's about nurturing well-rounded individuals who are better equipped to navigate the challenges of life. The cognitive, emotional, and social benefits of music cannot be overstated. As parents, educators, and policymakers, it is our responsibility to ensure that every student has the opportunity to experience the transformative power of music. By doing so, we are not only enriching their lives but also investing in a brighter and more harmonious future for all.

IF YOU HAVE...

5 Minutes	and	10 Minutes	and	45 Minutes
	and		and
CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE that explores the historical roots of denying Black musicians their royalties, tracing back to the legacy of slavery.	and	CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO of Hanif Willis-Abdurraqib paying tribute to the memory of Prince via poetry.	and	CHECK OUT THIS PODCAST that "confronts power from every angle – from the power the genre wields over its artists, to the power plays that its rulebreakers take in order to get heard."

During the second week of our challenge (Days 6-9), we delved into the disparities that exist within the mental health and music industries. While mental health care is undeniably a fundamental necessity for all, substantial barriers persist in the United States, hindering access for a majority of the population. Furthermore, access to music education, which has been shown to have a beneficial impact on mental health, remains an elusive goal for many individuals across the US.

Music possesses a profound healing potential, and the practice of activism and advocacy through music emerges as a compelling force that moves beyond boundaries to resonate with hearts and minds. Musicians have often (and still do) use their artistry to convey messages centered on social justice, equality, and the imperative for change, such as Buffy Sainte Marie (see below), Ella Fitzgerald, and Louie Armstrong, to name a few. From anthems of the civil rights movement to contemporary compositions addressing pressing societal issues, music is a catalyst for inspiring, mobilizing, and unifying communities in pursuit of a more equitable world.

_{Buffy Sainte-Marie Press Release from 1974 regarding the first US Treaty Trials since 1871.}

Some key takeaways:

Advocacy for Equity | Advocacy efforts should focus on dismantling systemic racism within education systems and the mental health care sector. This includes advocating for equitable funding, culturally competent mental health services, and policies that promote diversity and inclusion.

Cultural Relevance | Music education programs as well as mental health programs must incorporate and promote cultural relevance and diversity in their fields. Representation of diverse musical traditions and mental health providers can validate one's cultural identities and enhance their sense of belonging.

Industry Disparities | Communities of color often face disparities in accessing mental health care, including limited access to culturally competent mental health services, unequal insurance coverage, and stigma surrounding mental health within certain communities. Similarly, disparities in access and resources disparities extend to the music industry when it comes to representation, compensation, and leadership.

Systemic Racism | Systemic racism, discrimination, and racial bias have a detrimental effect on the mental health of individuals from racial and ethnic minority backgrounds. Experiencing racism can lead to stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma, collectively known as racial trauma or race-based traumatic stress. Systemic racism is still prevalent in the music industry, perpetuating barriers, underrepresentation, and lack of recognition.

The intersection of mental health care and music education access underscores the vital role that music can play in promoting emotional well-being and supporting mental health. Ensuring equitable access to music education and recognizing the potential barriers to access are crucial steps in harnessing the positive impact of music on mental health for all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances.