Each of us at some point in our lives, has pondered God’s purpose for us. After much prayer and discernment, I truly believe I’ve found mine, The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation. Our work will focus on eradicating the stigma around mental health issues in the African-American community. This means everything to me.

I named the organization after my father because of his complete and unconditional love for me; his unabashed, unashamed ability to tell the truth, even if it hurt; and his strength to push through his own battles with mental health issues. My dad fought in The Vietnam War for our country, returned broken, and received little to no physical and emotional support. I stand in his absence, committed to offering support to African Americans who face trauma daily, simply because they’re black.

BLHF is breaking the silence by speaking out and encouraging others to share their challenges with mental illness and get the help they need. African-Americans have regarded such communication as a sign of weakness and our vision is to change that perception. I ask you to join me on this journey. This is our legacy. This is our chance to make a difference. Together, we will break the silence and break the cycle!

-Love,

Taraji P. Henson