CityLight Men on the Wall, under the leadership of Chairman E.W. Cromartie, has partnered with the South Carolina Cancer Alliance (SCCA) to address one of the most pressing health crises facing Black men today: prostate cancer. Together, they will host a community-wide education and screening event on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Trinity Baptist Church, Columbia, SC.
The initiative was developed following a planning session at the CityLight Conference Room, 2638 Two Notch Road, Columbia. The meeting brought together clergy, health experts, and community leaders including Rev. Thurmond Bowens and Kirk Shields of Trinity Baptist Church; Rev. Vernon Dixon, Assistant Pastor of Bishop’s Memorial A.M.E. Church; Rev. Dr. Bernard Byrd, Pastor of Crucible Ecumenical Church; Bishop Carson Wise,
Secretary of Men on the Wall; Dr. James L. Felder, President of Ecumenical University; Redfern II, Presiding Bishop of the Ecumenical Church Worldwide; and Nicole Echols, CEO of the SCCA, along with her staff Tyron Wilson and Brenda Thorpe.
A Critical Health Challenge Statistics show that Black men in South Carolina are 1.7 times more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer and 2.5 times more likely to die from it compared to White men. Recent state data reports an incidence rate of 160.7 cases per 100,000 non-Hispanic Black males, versus 95.0 cases per 100,000 White males.
“Too many of our fathers, uncles, and brothers are being diagnosed too late,” said Chairman Cromartie. “This screening drive is about saving lives through early detection, education, and access to care.” What to Expect on November 15
The event at Trinity Baptist Church will feature:
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Free Prostate Cancer Screenings (PSA tests)
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Educational workshops for men and families on prevention, risk factors, and treatment options
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Resource tables with information from the South Carolina Cancer Alliance and partner organizations
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On-site support and referral services to ensure follow-up care
By hosting the event in a trusted faith-based setting, organizers hope to reduce barriers and encourage more men to take charge of their health. About the South Carolina Cancer Alliance
Founded in 2003, the South Carolina Cancer Alliance is a nonprofit network of more than 800 members working to reduce the impact of cancer across the state. The Alliance develops and implements the South Carolina Cancer Plan
(2022–2026), provides funding for prevention programs, and advocates for policies that increase access to screening and treatment.
About CityLight Men on the Wall CityLight Men on the Wall is a fellowship of men committed to preserving African American history, protecting community heritage, mentoring future generations, and promoting health equity. As part of their mission, the organization is addressing disparities in prostate cancer through education, outreach, and action.
Call to Action
The November 15 event is free and open to the public. Men over the age of 40, and especially those with a family history of prostate cancer, are strongly encouraged to attend. For more information or to volunteer, please contact City-Light Men on the Wall at +1 (803) 609-4537 or Motw@citylight.org
