BMAC Joins Board of Addiction Treatment Fund for Music Workers
Willie “Prophet” Stiggers, founder of the Black Music Action Coalition (BMAC), has recently become part of the founders’ board of the Neil Lasher Music Fund at Caron Treatment Centers. This fund offers financial aid to music workers struggling with drug and alcohol addiction and aims to combat the stigma associated with addiction within the Black music industry.
During the fund’s annual “Breakfast With the Founders Board” event on Feb. 2, Stiggers emphasized the importance of addressing the stigma surrounding addiction, mental health, and wellness in the Black community. He highlighted the need to eliminate economic barriers that prevent individuals from receiving the necessary treatment and support they require to thrive.
Stiggers first learned about the Neil Lasher Music Fund through Dina LaPolt, a veteran music attorney and member of BMAC’s executive leadership council. Inspired by the fund’s mission to provide treatment funding for industry professionals and their families, Stiggers expressed his desire to get involved and promote their message within the music community.
In collaboration with BMAC, the fund intends to establish artist recovery support spaces at music festivals and venues, as well as organize awareness-building events, starting with Atlanta this year. By joining forces with BMAC, the Neil Lasher Music Fund aims to diminish the stigma surrounding addiction and mental health issues within the Black community through education, awareness, and the provision of resources.
Dina LaPolt commended Stiggers and BMAC for their partnership with the fund, emphasizing the importance of destigmatizing seeking help for addiction and mental health challenges among Black individuals. She expressed confidence in Stiggers’ ability to bring about meaningful change and facilitate vital community support initiatives.
By collaborating with the Neil Lasher Music Fund, BMAC and Stiggers are committed to promoting awareness, education, and resources to help Black music workers overcome the barriers to seeking treatment and support for addiction and mental health issues. Together, they aim to make a positive impact within the music industry and empower individuals to prioritize their well-being.