El Paso, Texas — Senator Blanco was honored to receive the 2024 Charley H. Shannon Advocate for Justice Award during the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Texas 2024 Annual Conference: 40 Years of Hope and Healing. This prestigious award recognizes visionary leadership in improving legislation, laws, and conditions in the mental health arena, and highlights the important work being done to support mental health across Texas.

NAMI Texas annually honors leaders, advocates, and champions in the mental health community, celebrating those who strive to make a difference in the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness.

Statement from Senator César J. Blanco:

“I am truly honored to receive this recognition from NAMI Texas. Supporting mental health efforts in our community has always been a top priority of mine. As we mark 40 years of hope and healing, I look forward to continuing to work together to create a future where mental health is prioritized and treated with the dignity it deserves for the next 40 years and beyond. Thank you so much again!”

Statement from Greg Hansch, LMSW, Executive Director of NAMI Texas

"NAMI Texas is honored to present Senator César Blanco with the 2024 Charley H. Shannon Advocate for Justice Award. Senator Blanco’s steadfast dedication to advancing mental health care in Texas has resulted in historic progress, from expanding resources for children’s mental health to securing unprecedented funding for the El Paso Psychiatric Center. His leadership has opened doors for countless Texans to receive the mental health care they need and deserve. We are grateful for his dedication to fostering healthier, more resilient communities and look forward to his continued advocacy for mental health."

###