Visibility Campaign: Novlette Williams

Throughout Black History Month, we are continuing our Visibility Campaign series where we look to increase visibility of our Black staff, as well as our staff who have a passion for support and advocacy. Today's spotlight goes to Novlette Williams, LMSW, phone crisis support, Help Line.

Novlette, a woman of color and immigrant, joined Wheeler Health in August 2004 after working with various family shelters and the Department of Children and Families. She first experienced racism when she was pursuing her undergraduate degree at a private university. During introductions, a classmate asked Novlette, “What are you doing here?”

The tone she used took her and the entire class aback. The professor explained in front of the entire class that her question was inappropriate and discriminating. This encounter, among others, were the reasons she began to research racism in the United States.

What are some ways people can advocate for the Black community right now? "People can advocate for the Black community by shifting their mindset to embrace the fact that people are people, no matter the color of their skin. Stop seeing color, see people.

The greatest book I can recommend is the Holy Bible, used as a training tool and not as indoctrination. Love does not and should not see color but the heart."

Thank you, Novlette, for sharing your story!