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Panel Session

Latina / Latino Issues

Embracing Disability Justice and Joy in Latine Behavioral Health: Centering Trauma as a Disability

Latine individuals with disabilities face intersecting challenges related to mental health and systemic inequities, contributing to disparities in behavioral health outcomes. This panel presentation will center on community-based strategies implemented by Casa Esperanza Inc., a community-based Latinx behavioral health organization based in Boston, Massachusetts.

Learning Objectives:

At the end of this session, attendees should be able to:
  1. Examine the intersection of disability, trauma, and criminal justice involvement among Latine individuals and its impact on mental health outcomes.
  2. Identify systemic and policy-driven factors contributing to health disparities in Latine behavioral health and disability services.
  3. Apply disability justice principles to social work education, research, and practice, ensuring culturally responsive and equitable interventions.