Queer Black activist Jewel Cadet to lead allyship and mental health workshop

From working in the nonprofit sector to leading grassroots efforts for trans people of color, queer Black activist Jewel Cadet is an example of a community leader who practices allyship in every space she holds.

On behalf of peer-to-peer support app, HearMe, Jewel will host a 2-hour virtual workshop titled LGBTQIA+ Allyship & Mental Health on June 29.

Registration available now. The workshop will explore how being an ally to queer and trans folks is essential to mental health advocacy for ALL. This workshop will provide interactive discussion and analysis around personal identity, power, and privilege with an intersectional approach that addresses mental wellness as a pillar. 

The workshop is part of HearMe’s “HearMe Out” 5-week virtual series running throughout Pride Month.

Queer Forty caught up with Jewel to find out more about this essential event:

How can older LGBTQ+ folks keep up with the changes in the community and become more understanding of issues such as gender, youth, intersectionality, etc? Jewel: Older LGBTQ+ folks can keep up with the changes in the community and become more understanding of issues such as gender, youth, intersectionality etc. by having intergenerational relationships. While the internet can be a great resource for remaining updated it lacks one key feature–personal individualized connection. That personal connection formed from maintaining healthy relationships with the younger LGBTQ+ community is pivotal in understanding terms and concepts that may seem new. It also makes space for a mutual mentorship where both generations can learn from each other. The older generation is a crucial resource that is often underutilized. And the new generation has the modernized language and creative ways to share their knowledge. Together both generations can build and uplift each other if they keep an open mind, have accountability and appreciation for each other. 

What elder or older LGBTQ+ trailblazers have inspired you over the years for your own activism and identity?

• Alyce D. Emory and Kim Ford, Founders of Beyond Bold and Brave Black Lesbian Conference.
• Gloria Allen, a Black Trans elder from Chicago featured in the documentary Mama Gloria – most notably known for opening up a charm school for homeless youth who were Transgender. 
• Miss Major, a legendary activist who was on the forefront of the stonewall riots, and advocated for the rights of incarcerated people and those who have HIV and AIDS. 

Mental Health is a pressing issue for LGBTQ+ folks of all ages and stages in life. What do you personally pursue to safeguard your own mental wellness – any favorite tips, tricks, habits?

Jewel: I strongly believe in having a jewelry box of mental health support. Some of my faves include meditating, writing daily affirmations and talking to my therapist. In addition to that my support system of people I can trust. Peer support has played a pivotal role in my mental wellness however I know everyone may not have access to that. With tools like the HearMe app, peer support is readily available. They make time to listen and make space for you to share and be your full self. 

About Jewel Cadet

Born and raised in Brooklyn, East New York by a Haitian single mother, Jewel Cadet is an internationally renowned educator most recognized for leading challenging conversations on race, gender, healing and accountability.

She is an unapologetic Black queer abolitionist and freedom fighting femme for Black lives. A social justice organizer for the rights of Black women, girls, femmes and for the transgender and gender non-conforming community.

Jewel owns an event planning business, Jewel the Gem Productions, that hosts her own talk show and produces community spaces that center Black joy, restoration and healing. She has been recognized from BET to NYU for her dynamic work. As a multi-awarded speaker and educator, Jewel’s life’s mission is to amplify the voices of those who are silenced and support them on their journey to resilience.

About HearMe

Founded in 2018, HearMe is an on-demand emotional wellness and support platform where people can provide space for one another, feel connected, and offer much-needed support via the art of listening. Our Vision is a world where all people, regardless of background or circumstance, are understood and heard, allowing them to thrive as individuals and collectively as members of their community. The uniqueness of the HearMe paradigm is reflected in the listeners at the heart of the service, many of whom began as users seeking a connection themselves. The connections they find activate an empathetic desire to pay it forward. Kindness begets kindness. And a movement is born.