Taraji P. Henson, renowned actress and mental health advocate, is set to receive an honorary AARP Award for her efforts in destigmatizing mental health issues within marginalized communities. The recognition ceremony will take place on October 1, 2024, in Washington, D.C., where Henson's Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation will be honored for its impactful work.
Established in 2018, Henson's foundation aims to eradicate the stigma surrounding mental illness, particularly in underserved communities. The organization, named after Henson's father who struggled with untreated mental health issues following his service in the Vietnam War, focuses on providing resources and encouraging open dialogue about mental health challenges.
Henson expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, "I hope AARP's platform will highlight the importance of mental health and encourage individuals to discuss their struggles openly and seek help without shame."
The foundation's efforts have garnered attention and support from various institutions. In 2023, it partnered with Alabama State University to promote mental health wellness on campus. Additionally, Henson received recognition from the Boston-based Ruderman Family Foundation in 2000 for her work in mental health advocacy.
"Our mission has been to eradicate the stigma around mental illness."
Henson's career in entertainment has been equally noteworthy. She received an Oscar nomination for her role in "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" (2008) and co-starred in the critically acclaimed film "Hidden Figures" (2016). Her portrayal of Cookie Lyon in the television series "Empire" earned her a Golden Globe in 2016.
The AARP Purpose Prize, which honors individuals aged 50 and above for their contributions to society, will also be awarded to seven other recipients. Each winner's organization will receive $50,000 to support their initiatives. The diverse range of causes addressed by these organizations includes:
- Post-release support for exonerees
- Increasing electoral participation in underrepresented communities
- Youth mentorship and college readiness
- Support for formerly incarcerated women
- Connecting foster children with their communities
- Improving healthcare infrastructure in resource-constrained settings
- Promoting STEM education and opportunities
AARP CEO Jo Ann Jenkins commended the recipients for their innovative approaches to addressing pressing social issues and improving the lives of others.
Henson's journey to becoming a mental health advocate is as inspiring as her acting career. Born on September 11, 1970, in Washington, D.C., she initially studied electrical engineering before pursuing acting at Howard University. Her dedication to both her craft and social causes has earned her numerous accolades, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2019.
As an outspoken advocate for mental health awareness, Henson has been open about her own struggles with depression and anxiety. Her efforts extend beyond her foundation, as she has also been involved in various philanthropic endeavors, including supporting St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
The upcoming AARP Award ceremony will not only celebrate Henson's contributions but also shine a light on the critical importance of mental health support and destigmatization in marginalized communities.