Statement on May 18, 2022

A tragedy occurred in our nation at a Buffalo, New York grocery store that is incomprehensible. We must pause and understand the ripple effect of this event. There is of course the tremendous grief that the friends and family of the victims and the injured are feeling and our thoughts are with these members as they deal with the loss they are facing. We also must acknowledge how the event is a trauma reminder for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color in our community. Going to the grocery store is an everyday routine we all do. We must not allow our everyday routines to be flooded with fear from hateful individuals and groups. LUK condemns violence in all forms and recognizes the targeted nature of this tragedy is perpetuated by being silent. We want those in our community impacted by the tragedy in Buffalo to know we are listening and stand up against this act of violence and racism. LUK is a member of the National Child Traumatic Stress Network, which offers resources to the community on how to discuss difficult topics with children and youth. We hope the following fact sheet on how parents can help youth after a shooting will be helpful.

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