Unraveling the Myths: The Truth Behind Colorado's BHA Challenges
The recent Denver Post article, while shedding light on the challenges Colorado nonprofits face, only scratches the surface of the deeper issues at play. Mentioning Dr. Medlock's dismissal without delving into the harm she endured and continues to combat adds to the erasure of her experience. By amplifying the narrative of her firing without acknowledging the broader context of racial discrimination and institutionalized biases, media outlets inadvertently side with the oppressor, perpetuating a cycle of injustice.
Dannette Smith Named BHA Commissioner, Has Ties to Dr. Medlock - A Big Win for Community
Today, Governor Polis announced Dannette R. Smith to lead the Colorado Behavioral Health Administration (BHA). Smith will start as BHA Commissioner on March 18. Denver Post coverage shared Smith’s appointment which is a big win for JFM and the community, as Smith is a Woman of Color, and is connected to Dr. Medlock via a national fellowship.
Celebrating Courageous Accomplices, A Heartfelt Thank You From JFM
Standing up for justice takes immense courage. The Justice for Movement (JFM) is more than a movement; it's a testament to the strength of community, the power of solidarity, and the unwavering commitment to supporting those who fight for justice.
The Power of CORARequest.com for Colorado Citizens
In an era where accountability and transparency are paramount, access to public records holds the key to unveiling essential information that affects our lives. Colorado residents, especially state employees, now have an innovative and invaluable ally in their quest for transparency—CORARequest.com.
Unmasking Anti-Blackness: The Erasure of Dr. Medlock from Campaign Videos by the BHA
The continued erasure of Dr. Medlock and the apparent lack of accountability within the BHA, coupled with the misuse of government dollars for seemingly petty reasons, demands a collective outrage. This episode is not just an isolated incident; it is a symptom of a broader issue that needs urgent attention.
2024 Valparaiso University MLK Day Celebration Featuring Dr. Morgan Medlock
Morgan Medlock, M.D., M.Div., MPH Editor of “Racism and Psychiatry: Contemporary Issues and Interventions” will be presenting the keynote address at the 2024 Valparaiso University MLK Day Celebration during the convocation from 1-2:30 p.m. on January 15.
Leader Who Convened with Barnes on the Day of Dr. Medlock’s Ouster Interviewing for BHA Commissioner Role
The continued vacancies and maneuvers within leadership roles underscore the necessity for accountability, transparency, and a genuine commitment to inclusivity within the BHA. Ultimately, this environment of erasure and punitive actions demands a thorough reevaluation of leadership values, ethics, and the urgent need for genuine inclusion and equity within the BHA's corridors of power.
BHA JBC Briefing Recording Hidden
A friend of JFM tracked down the link for the December 7 hearing that is conveniently not linked on the formal JBC recording page (above), but is available with via direct link. And, thus far, the collective’s favorite comments are from Senator Kirkmeyer, stating, “I think the fact that they didn’t request any new funds is truly suspect” and continued with “I guess they [BHA] thought they could avoid a hearing but that’s not gonna happen. Senator Kirkmeyer, the JFM collective also finds Barnes and the BHA suss.
Barnes Opens the Door for New BHA Deputy Commissioner, Kelly Causey
In response to JFM’s most recent drop, sources shared that Interim BHA Commissioner Barnes announced the hiring of Kelly Causey as the BHA’s Deputy Commissioner of Engagement. Causey is already listed on the BHA website leadership page as “Deputy Commissioner”.
The Looming Void: Absence of Leadership at the BHA
As the impending Colorado legislative session approaches, the Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) finds itself in a precarious position with an absence of formal leadership. The unjust removal of Dr. Morgan Medlock in April 2023 has left a void in the commissioner's role, and the implications of this vacancy are multifaceted and deeply concerning.
BHA Advisory Council Releases Annual Report - Calls Medlock’s Departure “Devastating”
Learning of the BHA Commissioner’s departure was devastating to all of us, we experienced the trauma as a result of that loss and lack of communication. We lost trust and felt no accountability between BHAAC and BHA. With the departure of Dr. Medlock BHAAC experienced what felt like a barrier that stopped our progress and impeded our work.
Rep. Amabile Bullied BHA Employees Over Newsletter Content
Sources within the BHA express concerns about the way Rep. Amabile utilizes her lived experience in her advocacy efforts. They claim that she weaponizes her connection to mental health and her position as a legislative member to push her own agenda. She has been observed as failing to acknowledge the lived experiences of others within the BHA team who may have family members with similar diagnoses.
Rep. Amabile Publically Criticizes Dr. Medlock from Affluent Boulder
Representative Amabile's concern for the patients appears hypocritical and lacks the critical knowledge that Dr. Medlock possessed. If the concern was genuinely about the welfare of those the BHA was meant to serve, Dr. Medlock's expertise and track record should have been a valuable asset, rather than a point of contention.
Stop Barnes from Participating in BHA Hiring and Recruitment
At the heart of this issue are two pivotal tasks that Barnes has undertaken: the hiring of a new BHA Commissioner and recruiting new BHA Advisory Council (BHAAC) lived experience council members. In light of the potential conflicts of interest and concerns raised, it is imperative that Barnes should remove herself from all people-related structural decisions and hiring at the BHA.
Another BHA Hypocrisy Unveiled: A Tale of Two Approaches to DEI
In the realm of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), the recent legal opinion from the Colorado Attorney General stands as a beacon of hope, championing the importance and legality of DEI programs in the workplace. However, this stance raises an unsettling question when contrasted with the actions of BHA's Interim Commissioner Barnes and her senior team, who recently decided to "pause" DEI efforts. It reveals a glaring hypocrisy that warrants careful scrutiny.
Context Matters: U.S. Supreme Court Decision and DEI Programs
The Colorado Attorney General's legal opinion serves as a clarion call for organizations to redouble their efforts in promoting workplace diversity, equity, and inclusion. It's a reminder that DEI initiatives are not just lawful but vital for addressing longstanding disparities and building a brighter future for all.