Recent months have brought several heartbreaking national tragedies that continue to impact the well-being of the young people, families, and communities we serve--and the providers who support them.
In Memphis, body cam footage revealed the police slaying of Tyre Nichols, a young father, photographer, and Black man. In Monterey Park, 11 people were shot during Lunar New Year festivities. They were grandparents, family members, dancers, and Asian Americans. In Half Moon Bay, seven people who were farmworkers emigrated from China or Mexico were shot. In Colorado Springs, five people were killed and 19 more were injured by gun violence in the attack on Club Q, an LGBTQ+ nightclub.
We know that, for many people, the events of the last few weeks have been traumatizing and have reactivated past traumas. We have seen the ways that racism, hate, and bigotry continue to bias how the media and our systems (judicial, education, etc.) respond to police violence and community violence.
We recognize that the events in Memphis, Monterey Park, Half Moon Bay, and Colorado Springs are not the same--but they can provoke similar questions for caregivers, educators, and other people working in youth-serving systems. How do we explain these events to children and teens in age-appropriate ways? How do we both protect and empower young people?
This newsletter includes several resources and events to support you in your work with young people and families. We welcome you to contact NTTAC if you would like to discuss additional training, consultation, or resource needs.
Wishing you care, healing, and empowerment in the work,
The NTTAC Team
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