The University of Illinois Counseling Center stands in solidarity with those who are feeling anger, grief, fear, and concern about our nation in the wake of the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery. Like many others, we are frustrated about the frequency of violence (often by police) against Black people and the lack of action taken to prevent this violence. We continue to have faith in the goodness found in our humanity and are working within our local communities to make things safer and more equitable for everyone. Social advocacy can be an avenue for empowering individuals and communities.

The Counseling Center’s support comes in many forms, including trauma response, outreach and prevention consultations, and counseling services. We have a number of trained professionals who offer these services. While our offices remain closed to in-person contact due to the ongoing pandemic, we are available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at 217-333-3704. . If you need to speak with someone after 5 p.m., please call the Crisis Line at 217-359-4141.

Below are some additional resources you may find helpful.

University of Illinois Resources

Counseling Center Brochure: Coping with Race-Related Stress

Counseling Center Brochure: Trauma

Office of Inclusion and Intercultural Relations

Bruce D. Nesbitt African American Cultural Center

Other Resources

American Psychological Association: The Road to Resilience

Self-Care For People of Color After Psychological Trauma

How White People Can be Better Allies to the Black Community

Guide to Being an Ally