Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI) and Congressman Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) have introduced a resolution honoring Rosalynn Smith Carter for her decades of mental health advocacy during Mental Health Awareness Month.
In the resolution, Rep. Carter praised Rosalynn Smith Carter’s dedication to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues and increasing access to mental health care. He highlighted her advocacy efforts as instrumental in saving countless lives of individuals affected by mental health disorders and substance use disorders. Rep. Carter emphasized that Mental Health Awareness Month is a fitting time to honor the former First Lady for her lifelong commitment to service.
Congresswoman Dingell also commended Rosalynn Smith Carter for using her powerful voice and passion for mental health care to bring about much-needed change in the nation. Dingell acknowledged Carter’s compassion and empathy for individuals with mental health conditions, showcasing their humanity and strength. She expressed pride in joining Rep. Carter in honoring Carter’s legacy, recognizing the progress made in mental health awareness thanks to her tireless work and advocacy.
In response to the resolution, Carter Center CEO Paige Alexander highlighted Rosalynn Smith Carter’s reputation as the “First Lady of mental health” and her relentless efforts to combat stigma and increase access to mental health care for over 50 years. Alexander expressed gratitude to Representatives Carter and Dingell for their efforts to elevate Carter’s legacy of mental health advocacy and support the ongoing work of The Carter Center in her name.
The resolution acknowledges the significant impact of Rosalynn Smith Carter’s advocacy work and encourages continued efforts to destigmatize mental health issues and enhance access to care, making it an essential message during Mental Health Awareness Month, which aims to promote open dialogue about mental illnesses, reduce discrimination against those who suffer from them, raise awareness about available treatments, encourage people who are struggling with these conditions not only seek treatment but also feel safe enough seeking help without shame or fear of judgment or rejection by society at large.
