ACA Recognizes Trauma Due to Kentucky's Grand Jury's Decision in Breonna Taylor's Case

The American Counseling Association recognizes the devastation and trauma brought on by the Kentucky grand jury's decision not to charge anyone in the shooting of Breonna Taylor. This decision has a chilling effect on Black women, the Black community, and our society as a whole.

Racism, police brutality, systemic violence, and the dehumanizing forces of oppression, powerlessness, and white supremacy have eroded the very fabric of humanity, which ideally binds our society together. 

Seek support and information on racism's psychological toll. Practice self-care through counseling, meditation, and connecting with supportive communities. 

Our stance is: Black Lives Matter. We have a moral and professional obligation to deconstruct institutions that have historically been designed to benefit white America. These systems must be dismantled in order to level the playing field for Black communities. We remain committed to change.

Resources for counselors:

• Counseling Individuals of African Descent
• Black Mental Health Matters
• Addressing Clients' Experiences of Racism: A Model for Clinical Practice
• Identifying and Treating Race-Based Trauma in Counseling