Why A Parade
From 1986 – 2009 local organizations in Chicago Lawn once hosted a holiday parade bringing in 26000 people. TGI wants to re-envision it as a Mental Health Awareness Parade because;
Mental health is a stigmatized and pressing issue in black and brown communities
There is already a cultural desire to do more with mental health awareness, with many notable institutions and movements already having led campaigns centered around mental health awareness as a focal point
A parade can bring awareness, dialogue and route resources for mental health while also building community cohesion in a creative and meaningful way

Purpose of Parade
To celebrate those battling with mental illness honor those who lost their battle.
To humanize those suffering from mental health issues
To highlight mental health resources throughout Chicago
To shift the culture and create a sense of unity in southwest communities

Parade Details
63rd Springfield – 63rd Rockwell (1.7mi)
11:00am – 1:00pm
6 wellness baggie (resources) checkpoints
July 18th, 2020 (Saturday)
Floats, Bands, and Music
Parade Marshall – G-Herbo
15000 people expected

Resources
Directory of community organizations that offer stress relieving services. E.g yoga, Zumba, healing circles
Directory of different type of affordable therapist throughout the city
Directory of organizations that offer trauma and wrap-around services for families, particularly youth
Directory of health clinics throughout the city
A list of help-lines
A list of coping methods and free coping items.