The Mid-Atlantic Region of the American Music Therapy Association writes to acknowledge and condemn the terrible acts of bigotry and violence that took place in Charlottesville, Virginia, this past weekend (August 12, 2017). We extend condolences to the families of Heather Heyer, Lt. Pilot H. Jay Cullen, and Trooper Pilot Berke M.M. Bates who were killed in the events surrounding the rally.
As a community of music therapy clinicians, educators, and supervisors we reject the white racist acts and messages of hate and intimidation that resulted in death, serious injuries, and traumatization of innocent people. These acts further divide a community along lines of race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, and gender identity. It is our combined ethical responsibility to defend our values of inclusion and basic human dignity and respect.
If you need support, please contact Michael Viega at maramtapresident@gmail.com or Marisol Norris at maramtamembership@gmail.com. We can offer resources within the American Music Therapy Association and the Mid-Atlantic Region, as well as connect you to professionals within our association who can provide assistance. We also invite all members who are trained in the area of psychological first aid or willing and able to contribute support to fellow MAR members who have been deeply affected by this event and the continuous display of bigotry and national unrest, to contact us and let us know in what capacity you would be able to serve.
Sincerely,
Michael Viega, President of Mid-Atlantic Region of the American Music Therapy Association
Marisol Norris, Membership Chair of Mid-Atlantic Region of the American Music Therapy Association