As communicated across news platforms, there is violence throughout various parts in the world, most notably, the conflicts with Ukraine and Russia, and recently, Israel and Palestine. These conflicts impact people all over the world, including in our own province in Manitoba and in our schools. MASP denounces hate speech and crimes, antisemitism, Islamophobia, and any behavior that threatens the sense of personal safety. As school psychologists, we have a responsibility to help students, families, and schools feel safe and supported and to practice cultural responsiveness and humility. The following are resources that may be used of support for those impacted:
- Cultural Considerations to Support Students Affected by the Violence in Israel and Palestine This resource from the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) serves as a companion to "Supporting Youth Affected by the Violence in Israel and Gaza: Tips for Families and Educators"
- Healthy Muslim Families Counselling appointments in English and Urdu/Hindi.
- Islamic Social Services Association The ISSA offers individual and family counselling from a spiritual and cultural compatible paradigm.
- Jewish Child and Family Services Jewish Child and Family Services offers comprehensive support to Manitoba's Jewish population, including child welfare, mental health assistance, financial support, volunteer services, settlement services, addiction support, and community education. JCFS has offered support if you have any questions or needs related to Jewish and/or Israeli students or the ongoing war in Israel.
- Manitoba Islamic Association The Manitoba Islamic Association offers mental health & wellness counselling in Manitoba.
- Resources for Educators for conversations around Islamophobia and Antisemitism Manitoban, Canadian, and International resources for Educators
- Supporting Youth Affected by the Violence in Israel and Gaza: Tips for Families and Educators From NASP: Guidance for caregivers and educators to help children and youth feel safe by helping them understand what is going on factually, how events do or do not affect their lives, and how to manage their emotional reactions.