On September 26, 2026 Black People Die By Suicide Too welcomed a sold-out crowd to Martins West in Baltimore, Maryland for the first Inaugural Black Mental Health Awards (BMHA), an evening dedicated to breaking the silence around suicide in the Black community through honoring trailblazers and celebrating excellence in Black mental health. We are deeply grateful to everyone who joined us, sponsored us, donated, and carried this message forward.
Thank You to Our Keynote Speaker
We were honored to have Baltimore City Mayor, Brandon M. Scott, deliver this years keynote address. Thank you, Mayor Scott, for lending your voice and your leadership to this conversation.
Honoring Those Leading the Way
BMHA also recognized individuals and organizations making a meaningful difference in Black mental health and suicide prevention.
Brandon Johnson — Public Health Impact Award
Tiffinee Scott — Peer Specialist of the Year Trailblazer Award
Dr. Marline Francois-Madden — Excellence in Social Work Education & Research Award
Gettin’ Grown Podcast, hosted by Dr. TyKeia Robinson and Chef Jade Verette — Innovative Black Mental Health Media Award
Janiah Fields — The Shirley Holmes Legacy of Care: Rising Clinician Scholarship
Bri Alexander — Wellness Content Creator of the Year Award
Black Mental Health Alliance — Organization of the Year Award
Congratulations to each honoree. Your work reminds us that healing happens when communities show up for one another.
Event Highlights
The evening opened a space for artistry, honesty, and healing. Guests enjoyed a vocal performance by Lauren Jenkins, a spoken word piece by Justin Lokossou, and a set by rapper Creeze the Artist, with DJ Nu Kicks keeping the energy going throughout the night. Community members and survivors also shared powerful testimonies, reminding everyone in the room why this work matters. We are grateful to every performer, speaker, and storyteller who helped make BMHA a meaningful and memorable evening.
Thank You
BMHA would not have been possible without our sponsors, volunteers, speakers, honorees, attendees, and partners. Your generosity brings us closer to our $50,000 fundraising goal in which we have raised $18,425 thus far. These funds will directly support BPDBST’s programming, including peer support, community education, and resources for Black individuals and families affected by suicide. Thank you for standing with us, and we look forward to continuing this work alongside you.
