Critical Thinking & Cultural Affirmation.
CTCA is the pioneering behavior transformation and community mobilization framework developed by Dr. Cleo Manago — the intellectual spine of every BMX program, and the only intervention of its kind in the nation.
Two inputs. One transformation.
CTCA is a culturally-informed intervention designed to empower Black people by fostering critical thinking, self-affirmation, and responsible decision-making — reducing high-risk behavior while addressing race-based self-concept dilemmas, societal pressure, and internalized oppression. Developed by Dr. Cleo Manago through AmASSI Health & Cultural Centers, it promotes self-worth, community respect, and holistic well-being.
Rooted in Social Cognitive Theory, CTCA weaves protective, proactive, and adaptive racial socialization into one practice — meeting mental, sexual, and community health through cognitive-behavioral tools that speak to substance use, HIV, and hepatitis prevention. Peer leadership, community engagement, and culturally-competent health education build self-efficacy, cultural literacy, and lower the stigma around care.
improvement in self-concept & reduction in high-risk behavior among participants across two decades of implementation.
What CTCA asks of us.
Critical Thinking
We interrogate the ideas, systems, and language handed to us — asking whose interests they serve and what they cost us to believe.
Cultural Affirmation
We center African/Black cultural knowledge as a wellspring of identity, resilience, and design for right living.
Self-Determination
We define ourselves on our own terms — moving from reaction to declaration, from prescription to authorship.
Ready to see it in practice?
The framework lives in the programs. Join a Vibe Check, a Soul Brunch, or a Brothers of the C.O.L.O.R.S. circle near you.