Friends of Virginia's Central State Hospital is dedicated to preserving, educating, and advocating for the rich historical legacy of Central State Hospital, the first mental health institution in the United States established exclusively for African Americans.

 

We strive to:

1. Preserve: Safeguard and digitize the extensive archives of Central State Hospital, protecting over 150 years of irreplaceable African American genealogical data and mental health history.

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2. Educate: Raise awareness about Central State Hospital's pivotal role in the evolution of mental health care for African Americans, highlighting both its historical significance and its impact on current practices.

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3. Access: Facilitate access to historical records for families, scholars, and researchers, providing insights into the intersection of race, mental health, and social policy in America.

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4. Support: Partner with Central State Hospital to celebrate its history, support its current operations, and contribute to its successful transition into a new facility.

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5. Advocate: Champion the recognition of Central State Hospital's historical value, ensuring equity in how its legacy is preserved and presented alongside other institutions.

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6. Destigmatize: Work towards reducing the stigma surrounding mental health care in all communities, particularly among African Americans, by showcasing the dedication of staff and the quality of care provided throughout Central State Hospital's history.

 

7. Connect: Bridge the gap between past and present by helping families uncover information about their ancestors and fostering a deeper understanding of African American history in mental health care.

 

8. Innovate: Support and advocate for progressive changes in mental health policies and practices, drawing lessons from the hospital's rich history to inform future developments.

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Through these efforts, we aim to ensure that the legacy of Central State Hospital is not only preserved but also serves as a valuable resource for education, research, and ongoing improvements in mental health care for all communities.