On Saturday, Aug. 12, 2017, a rally was held in Charlottesville, Va., called "Unite the Right." While the United States supports free speech and the right to peaceably assemble, this event was nothing of the sort. Violence, bigotry, and hatred were promoted by the organizers of the rally. The many injuries and the deaths of three people were evidence that this demonstration was designed to divide, rather than unite.
As an organization committed to non-discrimination and social justice, the American Counseling Association abhors the senselessness of what occurred.
We know that many people will be emotionally impacted so we are providing the following links to resources that may be of help in working with students and clients.
ACA extends its sympathy to the families and friends of those who died, and we call on local, state, and federal governments to denounce racist and homophobic actions. There is simply no place in our society for this type of behavior.
The American Counseling Association values an inclusive society where people are accepted regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, culture, physical ability, religion, age, or sexual identity. Any discrimination is harmful to the well-being of the individual and our society.
We encourage all professional counselors to be resources to their communities. Our hearts go out to the Charlottesville community, and we stand in solidarity.
Resources and information:
Facing the realities of racism
As the United States grapples with the ugly truth of race-related fears, tensions and biases, counselors are being called on to reexamine their roles and responsibilities in addressing the issues.
Online learning toolkit – trauma, grief and multiculturalism
Developed by experienced counseling professionals who are members of ACA, these podcasts and tip sheets will provide credible guidance and support.
The first thing teachers should do when school starts is talk about hatred in America. Here’s help.
An article posted by the Washington Post.
Curriculum for White Americans to Educate Themselves on Race and Racism–from Ferguson to Charleston
An article posted by Citizenship & Social Justice.