Dear faculty and staff,
February is Black History Month, a time to remember, honor and celebrate the history of Black America. But it is also a time for looking at a history that contains significant racism and trauma, and a time for embracing our responsibility to address Black racism. The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture recently published an article about how self-care in essential when facing the challenges in antiracist work. As stated in their article, “We each bring our own beliefs, experiences, and feelings to our anti-racist work – a work that is difficult and demanding. Our ongoing commitment to actively think about and take action against racism, combined with a sense of urgency and deep caring, adds pressure and stress to our daily lives. The emotional impact of this work is real, therefore it is vital that we all practice self-care to benefit our overall health and quality of life. When we listen to our bodies, hearts, and minds, and consider input from trusted friends, we can find resiliency and renew our lives and work.” In particular, mindfulness is discussed as a successful self-care strategy for thinking, talking, and acting when facing racism. “People who practice self-care benefit themselves and society by decreasing stress which in turn lowers barriers of communication. By being mindful, looking inward and recognizing any negativity we may have internalized, we can develop compassion and patience for ourselves and others. Being mindful allows us to work toward a more equitable society effectively.” For additional mindfulness resources for parents and those in education during Black History month, read more at https://nmaahc.si.edu/learn/talking-about-race/topics/self-care
For a list of self-care options, including mindfulness, please see our COE self-care website for resources for faculty, staff, and COE students at:
https://www.csun.edu/eisner-education/self-care/articles-information-self-care
May we all be mindful as we recognize Black History month this February.
Warmly,
Shari