Seven of our MPH students attended the 2019 annual meeting of the American Public Health Association (APHA), held November 2-6, 2019 in Philadelphia, PA. What follows is a post from one of the attendees.
By Tonye Fohsta-Lynch, BA
This year I attended the APHA Annual Meeting with my fellow CEMCH Scholars. My experience at this year’s meeting was both informative and inspiring. While it can be overwhelming to attend such a large conference, the opportunities for learning and networking are plenty.
Of the many sessions and meetings I attend, two had the greatest impact. The first was a session hosted by Angela Doyinsola Aina of Black Mamas Matter Alliance. The panelists included Chanel Portia of Ancient Song Doula Services and of ROOTT. During the panel they spoke about the importance of community-based doulas in improving health outcomes for pregnant black women and the importance of not only giving Black women a seat at the table when it comes to making decisions that will affect their health but a voice as well. It was great to be surrounded by so many women of color who were all passionate about the mission of caring for women who are community and family members through the framework of community, advocacy, and sisterhood. As a doula, this session inspired me to continue my work in the community and to find ways to partner with other community serving doula organizations.
The second session entitled, “Let’s Hear it for the Boys,” was a session focused on addressing trauma in adolescent boys and men. The session spoke about the ways in which the trauma felt by young men is often misinterpreted because they are “just boys” or seen as “machismo” rather than allowing and encouraging more young men to show emotions in order to process trauma. The session also spoke about the legal ways in which adolescents experience trauma such as school and criminal justice policies, and even things that go unseen at home. I enjoyed this session as it shed light on the importance of advocating for our young boys, especially young African American boys so they have a chance to thrive.
Overall, both of these sessions really encouraged me to focus on ways in which I can work within my own community to make change happen. I was able to make some great connections and I am looking forward to using what I learned to inform my education and ultimately my career!
Tonye Fohsta-Lynch, BA, is a first-year MPH student, concentrating in Maternal & Child Health. She plans to graduate in December 2020. Her interests include impacts of trauma on adolescent health, sexual and reproductive health, impacts of climate change on health, and maternal mortality. She also loves nature walks with her dog, working out, dancing, and game nights.
