Recent events surrounding Michael Brown’s death in Ferguson, Missouri , and Eric Garner’s death in New York City have highlighted that racist attitudes and actions toward people of color—particularly African American males—continue to threaten their safety, rights, and ability to seek justice. The University of Illinois Counseling Center and its Sankofa African-American Outreach Team are firmly committed to building inclusive communities—both within the university and outside of it. We understand that working toward positive change can be frustrating, hurtful, depressing, and exhausting, but we continue to be hopeful that the efforts of our students, faculty, staff, and communities will result in real, lasting change.

Echoing the sentiments of the American Psychological Association’s Division 17, we’ve compiled a list of support resources for those reacting to and affected by violence against people of color in the United States. We realize these resources are a small step, but it’s our hope that they allow others to have the energy to continue these important conversations and to reach out to those around them. In addition to these resources, we’re available to counsel University of Illinois students during this difficult time. Please call 217-333-3704 or stop in our office on the second floor of Turner Student Services Building on the corner of Sixth and John Streets. If you need to talk to someone after hours, please call the Crisis Line at 217-359-4141.

Teaching and Discussion Resources

District of Columbia Public Schools Teachers’ Discussion Guide

12 Things White People Can Do Now Because Ferguson

5 Ways To Be an Ally to a Community You’re Not a Part Of

How to Argue Eloquently About Ferguson and Back Yourself Up With Facts

Prevention and Training Resources

4 Ways to Take Action Against Racism and Depression

Developing Racial Sensitivity

Dealing with Vicarious Trauma

Activism Resources

Black Lives Matter

ACLU Guide to the Right to Protest

Resilience Resources

My Brother's Keeper/White House Initiative

African American Boys and Resilience