EMDR Anti Racist-Riot Statement – August 2024

14 August, 2024

The EMDR Association UK is deeply saddened by the events of the past week, which have caused significant pain, fear, and anxiety within both local and national communities, particularly among those from ethnically minoritised groups. This violent behaviour is deeply distressing.

For some, these events may feel distant, while for others, they are all too close, affecting their neighbourhoods and even their homes. This trauma is being felt by the public, our clients, and our colleagues alike.

The spread of disinformation and misinformation on media platforms is exacerbating the situation, particularly for the most vulnerable in our communities, including those seeking refuge. Many who have already been displaced are facing displacement once again.

While a small group of individuals may be terrorising communities, there are also acts of solidarity and support taking place. As highly skilled practitioners working with complex trauma, we call on our colleagues, as well as local and national services, to extend their support to minoritised groups and those affected by these events.

We would like to thank The Community Trauma Conference (https://www.communitytraumaconf.com) for collating a list of mental health services and organisations ‘who are offering immediate support to People of Colour, Migrants and Muslim Communities being targeted by the violent racism in the UK’.

A list has been started on the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion EMDR Forum (https://forum.emdrassociation.org.uk/)