The timing for the conference is ideal, with growing concern not only for the number of black males being killed at the hands of white police officers, but also the number of black males killing each other. The mental health of young black males is the focus of ‘The Second Black Male Youth Mental Health Conference Series: Creating Harmonious Communities.’ The forum will also explore education, law enforcement and violence.

In partnership with Miami-Dade County Commissioner Audrey M. Edmonson, the conference spans three days, beginning on Dec. 8 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Little Haiti Cultural Center, 212 Northeast 59th Terrace in Miami.

Subsequent sessions in the north and south ends of Miami-Dade County are also scheduled. In partnership with Miami-Dade County Commissioner Barbara J. Jordan, the north session will take place on Wednesday, Dec. 9, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. at the North Dade Regional Library 2455 N.W. 183 Street in Miami Gardens.

The south session is in partnership with Miami-Dade County Commissioners Daniella Levine Cava and Dennis C. Moss and takes place on Thursday, Dec. 10, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. at the South Dade Regional Library 10750 S.W. 211 Street in Cutler Bay.

Featured speakers include Cheryl Grills, psychologist and associate dean at Loyola Marymount University; Joan Muir, psychologist and executive director of the Brief Strategic Family Therapy Institute at the University of Miami; Marva Robinson, clinical psychologist and community recovery expert and Kevin Washington, psychologist and president of the Association of Black Psychologists.

The event is free but registration is required. Do so at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mdeat-childrens-trust-2nd-black-male-youth-mental-health-conference-tickets-19650940492,  or call 305-375-5661.