Statement of Solidarity with Ukraine:
The Greater Pittsburgh Psychological Association is an organization that stands for human rights and the psychological and physical health and well-being of all people worldwide. We stand in solidarity with the Ukrainian people, and colleagues in the Eastern European region, as the Ukrainian nation defends itself against military invasion. We condemn the violence and aggression that puts many thousands in danger and we are gravely concerned about the immediate and long-term trauma and psychological impact of all people impacted both at home and abroad. We stand firmly against the cost of such aggression as well as the violation of human rights of the Ukrainian people. Our hearts go out to the people of Ukraine at this terrible time as we hope and pray for their safety and well-being. We stand in solidarity with all who are raising their voices and working tirelessly to protect and safeguard human life.
Statement Against Racism:
The Greater Pittsburgh Psychological Association (GPPA) stands with the community and families of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and countless other African-American men, women, and children who have been violently and senselessly killed in a nation that is presumed to protect the rights and dignity of all of its members. Since the time of slavery until the present moment, one particular segment of the American population has been chronically and repetitiously terrorized, traumatized, and disenfranchised based on the color of their skin. African-Americans have been forced to stand alone at times, with little to no sign of hope. We as a people, need to dig deep within, and ask a few basic questions: What have we learned about who we are through history and what do we want to become? And, why do we continue to tolerate the criminalization, brutalization, and victimization of a people that not only helped to build this nation but are a part of the fabric of this nation? We as psychologists have a duty to protect, help, and advocate for those who continue to be voiceless and nameless. The African-American community is rooted in vibrancy and richness, and it is time that this community be given the dignity it so deserves; especially by those of us who enjoy and have profited from privilege. In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.” Letter from Birmingham, Alabama jail, April 16, 1963.
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Statement Against Anti-Asian Racism
GPPA wants to share our support for AAPI communities following the tragic murders in Atlanta last week, and the overall increased violence and bias toward people identifying as Asian, Asian-American and Pacific Islander.
GPPA continues to advocate against racism and all forms of hate, prejudice, discrimination, and bias.
For further resources, please visit:
https://anti-asianviolenceresources.carrd.co/
Asian Americans Advancing Justice | AAJC (advancingjustice-aajc.org)