Embarking on the Journey

The Behavioral Health Racial Equity Collaborative (BHREC): In 2020, amidst the challenges of the pandemic, CIBHS embarked on a collaborative journey with Sacramento County BHS to fight the ongoing struggle against systemic racism and its detrimental effects on the well-being of Black, African America, and of African descent communities. Together, we sought to understand and address systemic racism and implicit bias within the department, advance racial equity, and eliminate race as a determinant of behavioral health outcomes in Sacramento County.

Through extensive research, focus groups, key informant interviews, and staff input, the BHREC Steering Committee identified three overarching themes to guide our work:

• Strengthening diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workforce.
• Enhancing community engagement to improve DEI.
• Promoting DEI to improve access to care.

Empowering Collaborative Action:

The next phase involved developing a collaborative effort with eight organizations within the Sacramento service area alongside Sacramento County Behavioral Health Services team.

Together, each organization worked to create Behavioral Health Racial Equity Plans, supported by training, tools, and technical assistance from CIBHS.

Each organizational team focused on two key areas:

1. Preparing the workforce to promote behavioral health equity.
2. Promoting health equity through community partnerships and collaboration.

Explore the strategies developed during this BHREC by reading our Summary Report.

Continued Progress

In 2022, our pilot project continued as the Steering Committee guided the implementation process of developed plans, providing valuable feedback and suggestions. We remain committed to meeting quarterly with BHS leadership, offering guidance on new projects, policies, and plans.

Expanding Impact

While our initial focus was on the Black, African American, or African of descent communities, we recognize the need for broader inclusivity. This year, we have launched a new project focusing on the Latino/a/x/e and Hispanic communities in Sacramento County.

Addressing Disparities

The statistics from the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) highlight the urgent need for action. Despite similar rates of mental illness and substance use disorder, Black Americans continue to face significant disparities in accessing mental health services.

Join the Movement

Together, we can drive meaningful change. Whether you’re a provider, advocate, or community member, your voice and your actions matter. Let’s collaborate to create a future where mental health equity is a reality for all.

• Are you interested in starting a project like this at your organization?

• Would you like your voice heard on improving health equity for your community?