CAPS Response to Recent Racial Injustice

Posted in CAPS Announcements

We at CAPS are aware of the recent tragedies and injustices impacting Black and African-American communities, including the death of George Floyd and the resulting protests around the country.  

We grieve in response to the tragic events in which Black and African-American communities and others have lost their lives in and/or been impacted by racially biased encounters. We stand against racism and hate in all its forms, and support the efforts of researchers, law enforcement, clinicians, teachers and policymakers to eliminate hate crimes and police brutality. As information on these tragic events continues to unfold, we encourage those that are struggling to seek safe supportive spaces to process their feelings and experiences. We want you to know that we are available as a resource for you, and we are dedicated to helping foster a climate that is safe and affirming for all students on campus and within the community.

We are here for Georgetown students being impacted directly or indirectly by these events. Telehealth appointments are available during business hours, and our on-call service is available after hours and on weekends. Call 202-687-6985 to schedule a telehealth appointment, or for emergencies after hours, please call the CAPS main office number, (202) 687-6985, on which a menu of options can direct you to our emergency consultation line.

We also want to make students aware of additional clinicians in the community who focus on serving traditionally marginalized or underserved communities.  Georgetown had originally contracted with them to provide services free of charge particularly for women and femmes of color who have experienced sexual assault, harassment, or trauma and we have now extended these services to include racial trauma.  You can access a list of providers here.

Additional resources:  

Association of Black Psychologists Self-Care Tool Kit.  This 26-page tool kit, written in English and Spanish, contains information about how stress and trauma affect the body and mind, and self-care strategies for dealing with the effects of racism.

The Safe Place App. It is free and designed to reach black users with information about mental health and self-care tips and resources. Available at the Apple Store and Google Play.

*Please note, this announcement was originally posted on our website on June 5, 2020 and was republished on July 24, 2020 in the context of website reformatting.