Rockford Ready, a health literacy initiative that utilizes art to convey its message, is once again participating in this year’s Spring ArtScene. This marks the third year that Rockford Ready has taken part in the art walk, showcasing diverse artists and talents that bring to light the issues surrounding health literacy through art.
Community members attending the art walk will have the opportunity to meet muralists and the newest youth poet laureate, Trinity Rucker. Rockford Ready is currently working on a mural with local artists from Rockford, known as the Fatherless Print Posse. Trinity will also perform a poem specifically written for the event, further intertwining art and health literacy. Organizations like Crusader Health will be present at the event, along with the option for attendees to participate in Narcan training.
Narcan training involves the administration of the drug Naloxone, which is used to prevent opiate overdoses. The health department provides this training as a first line of defense against opiate overdoses in the community. SouthSideScene is scheduled to take place from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, April 20 at the Guysie Jenkins Community Resource Center, located at 911 Michigan Ave in Rockford. This event promises to be a unique opportunity to engage with art while raising awareness about health literacy issues.
Anqunette Parham, executive director of Rockford Ready’s City of Rockford’s Health and Human Services department is excited to bring their unique perspective on health literacy through art into this year’s Spring ArtScene.
Rockford Ready aims to bridge gaps in knowledge and understanding of complex healthcare topics by utilizing different forms of arts such as painting, sculpture or even theater performance.
As part of their commitment towards promoting health equity among diverse communities in Rockford area they have partnered with other organizations who share similar goals like Crusader Health.
“We’re thrilled to be back for another year,” said Anqunette Parham “This collaboration allows us not only raise awareness but also inspire change within our community.”