Enola Aird Fund For The Community Healing Network

The Community Healing Network is dedicated to freeing the world of the lie that was used to justify the enslavement of Africans and has continued to perpetuate anti-Black racism down to the present day — the lie of White superiority and Black inferiority.

“Our goal is to eradicate the lie forever,” says Community Healing Network Founder Enola Aird. “Attitudes and behaviors are handed down with every generation. Much good is handed down, but we have to leave the toxic behind. If we do not do this work of freeing ourselves from the lie, then the assaults on our dignity will continue.”

The Community Healing Network brings together Black people from around the world to heal from the trauma caused by anti-Black racism. Its programs include a weekly online healing circle for a global audience and in‑person Emotional Emancipation Circles in different cities. Developed in collaboration with the Association of Black Psychologists, the emancipation circles create opportunities for participants to share stories, and deepen their understanding of self-worth, relationships, and communities. The programs also promote emotional wellness skills for living a fully healthy life.

“Racism adversely affects a person’s self-image and mental functions, your ability to walk with confidence in the world, and thinking clearly,” says Aird. “It makes the accomplishments of Black people all the more remarkable and is what gives me enthusiasm to do this work.”

To support the work of the Community Healing Network over the long term, Leon Bailey Jr., Sr. Vice President for Human Resources and Organizational Culture at The Community Foundation created the Enola Aird Fund For The Community Healing Network.

“For me, this fund is getting at the root cause of the problem, and if we don’t do that we’ll be working around the edges. I know the work will be successful,” Aird said.