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Gahanna Council presents Black History Month proclamation to Male Behavioral Health founder Jewel Woods
Summary
At its Feb. 3 meeting, Gahanna City Council presented a joint resolution and proclamation recognizing Jewel Woods, founder and clinical director of Male Behavioral Health and the Center for Men and Boys, and heard a presentation linking men’s mental health to the themes of Black History Month.
Gahanna City Council on Monday, Feb. 3, 2025, presented a joint resolution and proclamation recognizing Jewel Woods, founder and clinical director of Male Behavioral Health and the Center for Men and Boys, and heard him describe the organization’s work addressing mental health among men and boys.
Woods told council that his focus on men’s mental health grew from seeing that “very little specialized knowledge, training, or resources have been dedicated to addressing the unique mental health challenges of men and boys.” He cited statistics in his remarks, saying men account for about 71% of overdose deaths, 79% of suicides, 79% of homicides and 74% of motor vehicle fatalities, and argued those outcomes show a need for targeted supports.
Woods urged men and boys to seek help and to reject stigma. “Don’t fall for the lie that talking about your feelings, struggles, or challenges is a sign of weakness,” he said. “Strength is not about suppressing pain. It is about having the courage to face it.”
Councilmember Jones introduced the proclamation and framed the recognition as part of the council’s Black History Month observance. Council President Bowers thanked Woods after his remarks, saying he had “perfectly connected your work to Black History Month.” Several council members offered brief remarks of appreciation following the presentation.
Mayor Chadwick told Woods the city welcomes collaboration and noted a new city mental-health liaison on staff, saying, “We can’t wait to connect you with her,” referring to Jessica Curry, described in the meeting as the city’s mental health liaison.
The proclamation and Woods’ presentation were delivered during the council’s presentations portion of the agenda; no ordinance or binding action accompanied the recognition. Woods also noted his academic work and partnerships in the region, and he said his organization focuses on targeted, ethical supports for men and boys’ mental and behavioral health.
