Historic and modern-day policies rooted in discrimination and oppression have created and widened harmful inequities impacting many communities of color. Effectively and equitably addressing mental health requires intervening at systemic and policy levels to dismantle the structures that produce negative outcomes like generational poverty, intergenerational and cultural trauma, racism, sexism, and ableism.

CLASP identified these principles for advocates and policymakers to consider as they develop policy proposals at the local, state, and federal levels.

  1. Redefine mental health
  2. Expand access to care
  3. Enhance cultural responsive services
  4. Address social needs
  5. Strengthen quality infrastructure
  6. Build a diverse and robust workforce