Statement from NJCA on recent acts of violence
The violent hate crime committed on 5/14/2022 in Buffalo, N.Y., has traumatized a community and our nation. We grieve deeply for those who have lost loved ones.
This violent act is the latest reminder that racism is a clear threat to public health. During a tragedy like this caused by hate, it is important to call out and condemn racism, which plagues our nation. It is also necessary to recognize that those impacted by racism also suffer additional trauma because of their persistent exposure to gun violence.
Communities like Buffalo will need support for the trauma resulting from these tragic events. Buffalo as well as various NJ communities are grappling with gun violence. We, NJCA Board Members, condemn any violent act especially those motivated by racism. We condemn all acts that cause enduring personal and collective pain and we condemn gun violence.
We call our members to provide support to any victim of racism and/or gun violence. We gently advise any member of the community impacted directly or indirectly by these events to seek mental health assistance. One key resource is provided by the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Their helpline is open Monday thru Friday from 10 am to 10 pm (ET) by calling this number: 1-800-950-6264.
We remind all counselors to listen to their physical, affective, mental & spiritual health needs. Practicing and modeling self-care is essential to our work and well-being. NJCA offers a mentoring program to its members. If you feel you are in need of support at this time, do not hesitate to visit the NJCA website for additional information about our mentoring program (www.njcounseling.org)..
“Hope is important because it can make the present moment less difficult to bear. If we believe that tomorrow will be better, we can bear a hardship today.” (Thich Nhat Hanh)*
Resources:
- Valarie Kaur and The Revolutionary Love Project (11 Broad Common Road #357; Bristol, RI 02809) Follow Valarie Kaur & the Revolutionary Love Project on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram
- NJ Division of Mental Health Services helpline: 1-800-622-4357
- NJ Division of Mental Health Services by text: Text 51684 “NJ HOPE”
- Suicide National Helpline: 1-800-273-8255 (This service is available 24/7 every day of the year)
Beginning July 16 2022, you will only need to dial “988”
- Peace is every step: the path of mindfulness in everyday life. By Thich Nhat Hanh