I wanted us to talk about this here. In the African community, we often do well because we value coming together and supporting each other. ( Harambee spirit)
Still, there are some things we can do better.
Come with me
Think about people dealing with mental health challenges like depression, or those struggling with substance abuse, or families with a child born with a disability. Sometimes, these families end up alone because of how our community views these issues.
When these families need us the most, when they are at their lowest, we often pull away or distance ourselves. If we can be honest, we do a whole lot of talking about it amongst ourselves in the name of prayer or catching up as friends.
To be fair, we do finally show up, somewhat later. Sometimes, it’s a little bit too late. like when someone has already passed away, or when an issue has deteriorated. And the help we bring at that point can no longer benefit them.
And for that I am thankful.
Please keep reading.
Here is what we are hesitant to acknowledge: stigma!. Stigma is real in our communities. And it shows up in all types of spaces, and yes, sometimes spaces of worship.
I’m sharing this for a reason.
Let’s go back to the parents raising a child with a disability.
Have you ever wondered why someone might walk away because of a disability? I asked this question on our Facebook wall the other day.
The answers tell a story we all know—a story of stigma, blame, judgment, and isolation. Somehow, we act as if these families don’t belong.
Suddenly, the community that was supposed to be their safe space becomes a source of pain. Maybe that’s why some choose to walk away.
To be clear, I am not saying it’s right to walk away.
I am asking us to choose compassion over judgment.
If we want to fix this in our communities, we need to understand how we got here, face our deeper issues, and most importantly, lead with compassion instead of judgment and blame.
Restoration is possible.
