Peer Support and Civil Rights

by Gerald Butler

From Civil Rights to System Transformation

The brouhaha over the statements of talk show host Don Imus resurrects ghosts of the Civil Rights movement. It should also be a reminder of the significant role individuals play in the growth or the deterioration of society. Being a contributing member requires more than just paying taxes ETC, we must value what we say and how we treat others. America was founded based on the principle that every human being has the right to live and grow to their potential, freely. These basic issues are the ties that bind the Civil Rights Movement to the Peer Support Movement. Black folk were treated as not having the potential to be contributing members of society, as people with a mental illness/ substance abuse are treated today. The truth is the exact opposite, and the way we are treated plays a large role in how well we do in recovery.

In the seventies, there was a cry across the country to begin teaching ‘Black Studies’ courses in our schools. The curriculum had to be designed, taught, and graded by Black administrators, as they would have personally experienced Black peoples struggles for freedom and respect. The similarities between those times, and the struggles of recovering people today are uncanny. Just as Black people were demanding to be active participants in policymaking, we realize that by having ‘Been there-Done that’ folks in recovery have a lot to contribute to the system of ‘Recovery’. The ‘Peer Support’ movement teaches us to utilize our experiences to help others going through what we went through.

Through much introspection, and willingness to change, the system of Community Based Treatment has evolved to the point where recovery is becoming the norm, as opposed to a rarity. We are starting to realize how we must actively participate in our own recovery, and that no else but us can make the decision as to whether we recovery or not. I feel one of the most important lessons we learn, as Peer Supporters is the vital role, Politicians, Doctors, Case Managers, Service Providers, Counselors, ETC play in the recovery process, as long as the believe we are capable of recovery. Through the eyes of the Peer Support movement, we certainly are looking forward to a bright future. I envision, one day someone with a mental illness and/or substance abuse issues will be running the White. In fact, some would say that has already happened.