Women of Color are invited to Gather for Health, Saturday, Sept. 14

Women and girls of color are invited to the annual A Call to Women of Color, which focuses on empowering women and girls of color to engage in conversation and promote healthy living among women. This event is planned for women of color by women of color. Admission is free to the event, which takes place from noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 14, at the Roundhouse Pavilion, Genesee Valley Park, Rochester.

In its 18th year, A Call to Women of Color brings women of many generations together to receive the power, unity and healing that comes from sharing experiences and wisdom.

This year’s event will present the stories of women and girls of color in Incredible Women, Incredible Vision, Incredible Sisterhood. “Tapestries of Generations.” Local residents Cathy Thomas, Dr. Mary Tina Burrows, Keilani Graham, Arneska Harvey, Ashley Hamilton, Sonya Kittles, Desmoni, Asia and Dede Meeks, Maya Crane, Kayshawna Evans, Persephone Modeste, Ronda Wade, Cratrina Meeks and Rosa Marie will share stories of women who have inspired them.

Performers and activities during the day include music by Myra Brown, libation by Melanie Funchess, poetry by Anika Griffiths and Serena Joy, yoga with Cloria I’m Pretty and dancing.

Throughout the day, Rochester Regional Health will offer mammograms, Trillium Health will offer free HIV testing, the Monroe County Department will offer STI screenings, and URMC will offer health screenings. Common Ground Health representatives will offer free blood pressure screenings.

Organized by women of color for women of color, the event also features a diverse group of vendors, including female entrepreneurs, crafters and nonprofits sharing information.

The event is sponsored by the Breast Cancer Coalition, CCSI/Monroe County Mental Health Services, the City of Rochester, Elizabeth Wende Breast Care Fund, the Greater Rochester Black Agenda Group (BAG), Healthy Baby Network, Ibero American Action League, Planned Parenthood of Central and Western NY, Rochester Regional Health Obstetrics and Gynecology, Trillium Health, URMC School of Nursing, URMC Cardiology Care, Wilmot Institute Community Outreach and Engagement Office and YWCA of Rochester and Monroe County.

This year, a limited number of childcare spots are available. Register at www.commongroundhealth.org/actwoc.