(June 14, 2017) There has been a great deal of discussion regarding the participation of some individuals associated with the Treatment Advocacy Center in the upcoming NAMI board elections. In light of that discussion, I felt it would be helpful to provide our perspective.
Frankie Berger, our director of advocacy, is a candidate for NAMI’s board in her individual capacity, as a member of NAMI and a person inspired by her experiences. She will not represent the Treatment Advocacy Center if elected and her candidacy is not being coordinated by this organization.
In addition, a number of other NAMI board candidates have connections to the Treatment Advocacy Center. This is natural, as both of our organizations tend to attract those with a strong commitment to improving conditions for people with severe mental illness. Regarding the election, the Treatment Advocacy Center has not sponsored any candidates or asked anyone to run on our behalf. The Treatment Advocacy Center recognizes and respects NAMI’s right to determine its own agenda and future.
We also reject any attempt to portray our two organizations as adversaries. From our inception in 1998, the Treatment Advocacy Center has worked closely with NAMI and its affiliates to achieve milestones for our friends with severe mental illness and loved ones. We hope to continue this collaboration in the years to come. Our two organizations may be different, but we are united in an overriding goal of improving the lives of those with severe mental illness and their families.