There are so many more eloquent voices than my own that have illuminated the systemic and institutional racism that infects the United States on both micro and macro levels. That a mantra such as “Black Lives Matter” even has to exist is unbelievably tragic and traumatic and yet believe it, we must. Just like so many of you, my heart hurts for George Floyd, for Ahmaud Arbery, for Philando Castile, for Trayvon Martin, for Eric Garner, for my Black mom and dad friends, for their sons and daughters, for my Black and POC therapy clients and colleagues, and for too many more to list here.

It’s a lovely night here in Washington, DC. As I sit here, struggling to find the right words, I can feel a gentle breeze wafting through the house from the wide open windows. I can hear faintly in the background, police sirens and occasional “pops” in the distance. Last night, I fell asleep to the sound of helicopter after helicopter. There is anger and frustration and grief and pain out there on behalf of Black lives and I can only hope that George Floyd’s death is the final straw, the wake up call that will result in a true dismantling of racism in this country. I have to admit, though, that I am fearful that real change is still a ways away.

My allyship will be imperfect. In my role as a member of society, I am working towards acknowledging that fact and yet not allowing that to stop me from trying. In my role as a therapist for BIPOC clients, I am working towards learning more, to understanding more deeply, and to being present without fear of discomfort in the pain and trauma most, if not all, have endured. It is my honor and privilege to hold your pain together in the hopes of lightening the weight of that load.

Take good care of yourselves and your loved ones. If you are moved to, perhaps pay special attention to the well-being of those around you who are hurting deeply right now. We can get through this, most especially if we do this together in unity.

Black Lives Matter.

For more information on our practice’s approach to racism and prejudice, check out our page on Identity and Culture.

If you’re in pain and need a safe place to share and heal, please reach out.