The Cookout is open to all faculty and staff and will provide an opportunity for conversation about issues impacting faculty and staff who identify as Black, Indigenous and persons of color. Recognizing the power of community and collective healing, the purpose is to provide BIPOC faculty and staff the chance to speak intently about their experiences and strategies and share resources. 

The Cookout is part of a range of events NC State will host in July as a part of BIPOC Mental Health Month. The month honors Bebe Moore Campbell, who was known for her mental health education advocacy and support in communities of color. This month honors and centers the experiences of Black, Indigenous and people of color by raising awareness about the unique struggles that underrepresented groups face regarding mental health and illness in the United States.