Memories of Jacki McKinney

(November 7, 2021)

(Jacki McKinney and Celia Brown)

JACKI McKINNEY, M.S.W.

Brief Biography Courtesy the National Association of Rights, Protection, and Advocacy (NARPA)

Jacki McKinney, M.S.W., is a survivor of trauma, addiction, homelessness and the psychiatric and criminal justice systems. She is a family advocate specializing in issues affecting African-American women and their children and is a founding member of the National People of Color Consumer/Survivor Network. Ms. McKinney has been a consultant and advisor to the Center for Mental Health Services and is well known for her moving presentations to national audiences on issues such as seclusion/restraint, intergenerational family support and minority issues in public mental health. The National Mental Health Association has honored Jacki McKinney with the Clifford Beers award for her work on behalf of people with mental disabilities.

Jacki McKinney speaks at the Opal Network in Eugene, Oregon on October 15, 2012.

(The Grandmothers of the Movement, left to right: Sally Zinman, Pat Deegan, Jacki McKinney, and Gayle Bluebird at a NYAPRS Conference. Photo courtesy Celia Brown.)

(Photo and description courtesy The Black Mind Initiative) – Ms. Jacki McKinney M.S.W. spoke to national audiences about topics like minority issues in public health and intergenerational family support. We salute her unwavering dedication to sharing the experiences of African American women & being a leading voice for trauma victims.

Jacki McKinney and Keris Myrick

Jacki was a cherished mentor and friend of many leaders of the movement.

Jacki was recognized in May of 2021 by the New York State Office of Mental Health as a JEDI Warrior for her life’s work in justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion.

And she was a beloved mother, grandmother and great grandmother. The following tribute was shared by her daughter Pamela in the hopes that all could see Jacki’s love for the world.

Jacki, thank you for your loving dedication to all. We miss you!

Leave a Reply

%d bloggers like this: