Richard Yep, CEO of ACA
Every year in July, we look forward to starting the program year with new officials, committee members and other people who take on voluntary leadership positions in the association. This year we welcome Sue Pressman as 69th President of the American Counseling Association, along with a cadre of other dedicated volunteers. We know that we live in challenging times and we wish everyone all the best if they take the guise of leadership.
For many people, the corona virus and working from home has taken its toll. And now we're facing racial violence and a gap in national leadership that helps us navigate towards the society we envision. People all over the country are in pain. ACA members are in pain. People who work for ACA are in pain. I know because I am one of them. When I think of the deaths of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, Dreasjon Reed, Tony McDade, George Floyd and countless others, I am sad. Our country can be better than what we saw.
ACA has long supported social justice, campaigns against discrimination and understands the benefits of different communities. Some may wonder what does ACA do? First and foremost, ACA condemns all forms of discrimination and we firmly believe that Black Lives Matter. We looked at what we can do as an organization. We have tried to work with our departments, regions and branches. We have also looked outside of our "family" for meaningful partnerships with other groups that fight oppression and racism to the extent that we will.
In early June, ACA launched a special section of its website (at Counseling.org/knowledge-center/mental-health-resources/racism) with resources, information, and announcements of upcoming events for consultants who want to know more about their place against racist violence. The website also contains numerous articles and reading suggestions for those who want to learn more about understanding and working to eliminate racism.
In mid-June, ACA, its regions, many of its departments and the ACA Foundation came together in a virtual town hall to research racism and to campaign for it again. I have always appreciated knowing that my employer takes these realities seriously and uses resources for real social change. ACA is in this long game battle. We intend to further expand our offer in the coming weeks and months.
It is important that ACA members and other professional advisors take the time to address their personal needs, as well as those of colleagues, friends, and family members. When dealing with your own emotions about what has developed, remember to review those who may feel isolated, marginalized, and forgotten. What happened has profoundly influenced me professionally and personally. I believe that each of us must do what we can to ensure that everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Each of us has to make a difference in our own way.
Let us remember George, Ahmaud, Breonna, Dreasjon, Tony and so many others. And then we consider what role we will play, both individually and collectively, to end racial violence in our country.
As always, I look forward to your comments, questions and thoughts. Call me at 800-347-6647. 231 or email me at [email protected]. You can also follow me on Twitter: @Richyep.
Be healthy.
