By Ashleigh Fields
On the South Side of Chicago, Black men have collectively prioritized and mobilized on issues paramount to their demographic. Prostate cancer, lung cancer and the lack of participation in clinical trials have remained hot topics for the local group known as Project Brotherhood.
“We create a safe space for men to come together,” said Murray. “Everything we do is culturally and specifically designed for Black men; we speak to them in a way that they can relate to.”
According to the University of Mississippi Medical Center, Black men live 7.1 years less than other racial groups. Black men have higher death rates than women for all leading causes of death.
Project Brotherhood gained non-profit status upon its inception in 1997. The following year, it created and successfully maintained its own clinic within the Cook County Hospital staffed by voluntary Black doctors. The resource has opened a pathway for raw and honest discussions about Black male health.
“We are designed to make men completely healthy; mentally, physically, socially, economically and physically,” said Marcus Murray, who serves as Executive Director and Co-Founder. “Health is not just the absence of disease.”
He is working to spread this new concept in neighborhoods across the country through the newly established Black Male Health Day, which took place on June 14. Murray worked with the Council on Black Health to establish the national day of recognition to promote wellness among Black men through education, outreach, and access to resources.
“From birth to death, the definition of what we consider health, it’s more than just physical,” Murray explained. “We want people to be aware of Black Male Health Day and the long list of activities we’ve compiled that you can do by yourself, with a group or events to participate in.”
Currently, the Council on Black Health’s website features seminars, screenings and a pledge for viewers to acknowledge alarming disparities in Black male health and participate in efforts to raise awareness.
“We hope the day will evolve over the years and encourage Black men to engage in small acts that support their well-being. Taking your kids for ice cream is cool on Black National Male Health Day,” said Murray. “We are sitting on something special and spurring more involvement in clinical and social research.”
“On the South Side of Chicago, Project Brotherhood addresses critical health issues like prostate and lung cancer among Black men. Executive Director Marcus Murray promotes holistic wellness through the newly established Black Male Health Day, aiming to spread awareness and encourage participation in clinical trials.”
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