Healthy New Jersey

New Jersey Governor's Council on Mental Health Stigma

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Center For Family Services’ Stigma-Free Conference Focuses on Cultural Competency

On Oct. 25, 2024, Center For Family Services’ Intercultural Competency Committee hosted a statewide Stigma-Free Conference that focused on cultural competency.  Dr. June DePonte Sernak, Statewide Diversity Leadership Officer spoke on stigma in mental health; Laura Montenegro, LSW, Assistant Regional Director, spoke on the Stigma Free initiative in her county, followed by Dr. Debeka Bennett from Human Connections on Socioeconomics of Diversity in the Workplace.  The event also included lunch to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. It was very well received with great conversation and action items to continue this work in the community and professional roles.