I am Multi-Racial and Rebellious, and my salient identities are ever present. I come from a long ancestral line of wounded warriors scarred by racial terror and the threat of erasure, From West African slave grandparents' sets brought to Haiti, New Orleans, and Puerto Rico, and my indigenous rooting first nations Borikén Raza India. This complex ancestral and inherited legacy of trauma and healing is what has called me here to do this work.
I am also a Psychotherapist, and a Professional Genealogist.
My work across these disciplines has deepened my understanding of the intersections of history, identity, intergenerational trauma, and the human experience. I bring this knowledge, along with my lived experiences, into the Collective with a commitment to curiosity, truth-telling, and challenging conventional ways of thinking.
Melinda 'Naníchí' Salcedo is a Taíno Mental health Advocate and Activist dedicated to promoting culturally responsive mental health awareness and support. She is currently pursuing a degree in Psychology at Capella University, with a passion for improving mental health care for Indigenous and underserved communities. As a Warmline Specialist with Wings Across Alabama Peer Organization, she provides compassionate, peer-based support to individuals navigating mental health challenges. Through her education, professional work, and cultural identity, she strives to amplify Indigenous voices, reduce mental health stigma, and advocate for healing, empowerment, and community connection.
She is also a Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPS-A)