MassFamilies kicked off the first cultural conversation in the series Real Talk: Black and Brown Conversations last week, and it was a huge success! Over 50 people from across the state joined us to share and hear from Ala Ochumare, who spoke about Differently Abled Youth and LGBTQ2S+ Inclusion.
This speaker series is part of our strategic mission to work with families from all ethnic backgrounds and help them imagine better for themselves and their loved ones. MassFamilies is working on becoming more intentional in recruiting and supporting black, Indigenous and people of color (BIPOC) families in Massachusetts.
Our next Real Talk conversation will happen Wednesday, June 30, 2021, from 2:00-3:00pm Eastern time and will feature Moetsky Tiano, who will share his personal experience with Guardianship and Sibling Support. We hope you can join us!
More about Moetsky

Moetsky Tiano is the brother of Naomie Monplaisir and whose family is from Haiti. He became her full-time guardian when both of their parents were in the hospital. Moetsky, a musician, and hip-hop producer, has always been part of the caring process, although he has a full-time job in foster care. He understands adults with disabilities, having worked with them for years helping them embrace their talents.He and his sister star in Intelligent Lives, a documentary by award-winning filmmaker Dan Habib that tells the story of three young Americans with intellectual disabilities. It follows each person as they work to make strides and promote greater inclusion in their high school, college, and in the workforce.
Upcoming Sessions
Wednesday, June 30, 2021: Moetsky Tiano
Guardianship & Sibling Support
Wednesday, July 14, 2021: Danielle Eddins
Prioritizing Mental Wellness
Wednesday, July 21, 2021: Jaya Pandey
Embracing Your Culture
Wednesday, August 4, 2021: Keila Torres
Diverse families and alternate family supports.*
Wednesday, August 18, 2021: Cynthia Laine
Mindful Advocacy
REGISTER for the series: https://massfamilies-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMkdeCuqTwqH9F0N51mkC6R33mi5q122mF8
There is no cost to you thanks to The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) and private donations.
*This specific session will be in Spanish with English translation.*