sgvpa-staging

November is National Native American Indian & Alaskan Native Heritage Month

Sat, 08 Nov 2025 03:47:51 GMT

Hello SGVPA Folx,

It's National Native American Indian and Alaskan Native Heritage Month

November is Native American Heritage Month and here are some resources that can be shared with clients and colleagues. We honor the communities and cultures that have enriched our American identity. The founding of our nation comes at the cost of many cultures, lives, and marginalization of the indigenous peoples of this continent. The hope is to learn more about the indigenous cultures of our nation and acknowledge all their contributions to this great nation. - https://lacountylibrary.org/native-american-heritage-month/

We are situated on the native lands of the Tongva People and we share the earth that housed so many generations of indigenous peoples. We must honor those that came before us and acknowledge as Angelinos that the Tongva People are still here. https://gabrielinotongva.org/

History:

"November is federally recognized as National Native American Heritage Month (NNAHM). During this month, American Indian and Alaska Natives (AI/AN) are honored and celebrated for their rich and varied cultures, traditions, history, and societal contributions. NNAHM gives us an opportunity to become more educated about Native Americans, increase our knowledge of unique challenges faced by this population, and better understand how historical trauma—such as colonization and genocide—has impacted Native peoples." https://www.samhsa.gov/blog/celebrating-national-native-american-heritage-month

https://www.nativeamericanheritagemonth.gov/

https://www.bia.gov/NNAHM

https://www.senate.gov/artandhistory/history/common/generic/American_Indian_Heritage_Month.htm

Suicide Prevention

"This November, in honor of Native American Heritage Month, join us in our efforts to fight suicide and raise mental health awareness among Indigenous Peoples."

https://afsp.org/story/mental-health-and-suicide-prevention-resources-for-indigenous-peoples

Mental Health Resources for Indigenous Peoples:

https://pages.nativehope.org/native-hope-resource-library

https://locator.lacounty.gov/health/Location/3181175/american-indian-counseling-center

https://uaii.org/health-services/behavioral/

https://www.icowellness.com/

https://americanindianchangingspirits.com/

https://strongheartshelpline.org/

https://www.nami.org/your-journey/identity-and-cultural-dimensions/indigenous/

Resources For Ways to Decolonize Thanksgiving and Honor Native Peoples on Thanksgiving:

"The idyllic story that the Wampanoag welcomed the grateful pilgrims to a celebratory feast that we now honor as Thanksgiving fails to acknowledge the history of settlers’ land expansion, biological warfare, and exploitation that irreparably destroyed Indigenous lives and communities. At the Center for Social Solutions, we acknowledge the falsehoods in these long-perpetuated narratives and aim to decolonize Thanksgiving by coming to terms with its origins and honoring a future in which Native peoples, cultures, and histories are celebrated." -

https://www.culturalsurvival.org/news/11-ways-decolonize-your-thanksgiving-and-honor-native-peoples

https://lsa.umich.edu/social-solutions/news-events/news/digests/ways-to-decolonize-thanksgiving.html

https://www.iup.edu/news-events/news/2021/11/make-your-thanksgiving-more-meaningful-with-history-you-never-knew.html

https://unexpectedvirtualtours.com/resources/native-american-heritage-day/

Sincerely,

Emily Morales, Psy.D., LMFT, Diversity Chair

October is Domestic Violence Prevention and Awareness Month

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 16:54:46 GMT

Hello SGVPA Folx,

It's that time of the year again to wear our purple ribbons and advocate!

Intimate partner violence affects millions of people in the United States every year according to the CDC. https://www.cdc.gov/intimate-partner-violence/about/index.html

My journey into the psychology and therapeutic world started out at the Santa Cruz County Women's Crisis Support Center - Defensa de Mujeres. I became a volunteer for their organization and completed their 100 hour volunteership training in 2005. I was introduced to this topic through advocacy in my AP English class in high school so when the volunteer opportunity arose I was ready to do my part. Both having a personal interest and an advocacy interest in domestic violence I have been able to incorporate this topic into every year of training and continue to assist this population in a therapeutic setting. I have been wearing my purple ribbon for advocacy and awareness since 2003. Please feel free to share these resources with friends, family, colleagues, clients, and community members. Intimate partner violence reaches into every socioeconomic range, ethnicity, sexuality, gender, and level of education. We can be safe spaces and strongholds for our community.

A Call To Action Message From Peace Over Violence

Please check out the resources through the Peace Over Violence website. You can get information on the type of abuse, the cycle of violence and power and control, safety planning, myths, and guides for friends and families. https://www.peaceoverviolence.org/domestic-violence

Check out the domestic violence awareness month toolkit from Stop the Hurt resources both in English and Spanish. https://stopthehurt.org/

Together We Can Spread Awareness

Are you interested in learning more or getting more training for intimate partner violence? I will provide some websites with free and pay-for-service information.

https://www.womensv.org/domestic-violence-advocate-training

https://safeandtogetherinstitute.com/core-training

https://www.dvawareness.org/free-materials

https://alternativestoviolence.org/help/free-training/

Here are some resources for specific populations:

For the hearing impaired: https://www.thedeafhotline.org/

For the Native American population: https://strongheartshelpline.org/

For the LGBTQIA2S+ population: https://www.tnlr.org/en/24-hour-hotline/

An Intimate Partner Violence Prevention Resource booklet: https://www.cdc.gov/violence-prevention/media/pdf/resources-for-action/IPV-Prevention-Resource_508.pdf

Domestic Violence in Same Sex Couples and Gender Minorities

Four Category System - LA LGBT Center's breakdown of categories of relationship violence:

Primary Victims, Defending Victims, Secondary Aggressors, and Primary Aggressors

https://www.calhealthreport.org/2017/06/21/push-fair-treatment-los-angeles-lgbt-center-creates-new-categories-relationship-violence/

Gender-Based Domestic Violence Information, Intimate Partner Violence affects all genders and gender minorities: https://interactofwake.org/resources/gender-based/

Hotlines:

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE)

LA County's Domestic Violence 24-hour Support Services: 1-800-978-3600

LGBTQIA2S+ Domestic Violence support: 1-800-832-1901

StrongHearts Native Helpline: Call or text 1-844-7NATIVE (762-8483)

Domestic Violence Resource Center: 503-469-8620

Legal Services:

Peace Over Violence: https://www.peaceoverviolence.org/domestic-violence

The People Concern: https://www.thepeopleconcern.org/sojourn/ - (310) 264-6644

Legal Self Help: https://selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/restraining-orders

Legal Aid: https://lafla.org/get-help/

September is Hispanic Heritage Month

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 18:49:38 GMT

Hello SGVPA Folx,

It's Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15 - October 15

September is the start of Hispanic Heritage Month. Hispanic Heritage Month starts September 15th through October 15th. Although the name is Hispanic Heritage it is meant to capture Latino/a individuals. "Hispanic usually refers to people with a background in a Spanish-speaking country, while Latino is typically used to identify people who hail from Latin America." - https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-the-difference-between-hispanic-vs-latino-5082005

The resources presented today will be ways to celebrate and honor the Hispanic Latin@ population, resources to inform yourself on what to do with anti-Hispanic/anti-Latino sentiment, and access to Spanish language resources.

"Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated each year from September 15 to October 15. It began as a week-long celebration in 1968 under President Johnson and was expanded to a month by President Reagan 20 years later in 1988. The month-long celebration provides more time to properly recognize the significant contributions Hispanic/Latino Americans have made in the United States.." - https://latino.si.edu/learn/teaching-and-learning-resources/hispanic-heritage-month-resources/hispanic-heritage-month

Resources for Anti-Hispanic Anti-Latino Rhetoric

Due to the current political climate it is very important to bring up anti-Hispanic anti-Latino rhetoric. We have been watching what hate does to our communities. The xenophobic rhetoric is right here in our backyards impacting communities of color. You can read up on the long history of anti-Hispanic anti-Latino rhetoric. https://www.history.com/articles/the-brutal-history-of-anti-latino-discrimination-in-america

Hispanic Latino Trauma Toolkit

https://www.psychiatry.org/psychiatrists/diversity/education/stress-and-trauma/hispanics

Resources for the Hispanic and Latino/a/x Communities

Together we can be advocates and allies for our Hispanic and Latino population. We can celebrate the diversity and contributions of the Hispanic and Latino community. We honor those that stood up for human rights and fought for our place in our communities. The Los Angeles area, the San Gabriel Valley, California, the South West all benefit from the contributions of our Hispanic and Latino community members. https://latino.si.edu/learn/teaching-and-learning-resources/hispanic-heritage-month-resources/hispanic-heritage-month#celebrate

Here are resources for the Hispanic and Latino community:

https://namica.org/resources/latino-a-x-resources/

https://afsp.org/story/mental-health-resources-for-hispanic-and-latinx-communities

https://www.hispanicfederation.org/our-work/health/mental-health-resources/

Spanish Language Resources:

https://mhanational.org/resources/recursos/

https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/la-salud-mental

https://www.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/spanish-language-resources-obhe-10202020.pdf

Sincerely,

Emily Morales, Psy.D., LMFT, Diversity Chair

September is Suicide Prevention Month

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 18:33:51 GMT

Hello SGVPA Folx,

Let's Start the Conversation!

I would like to share some support resources for Suicide Prevention and Awareness. September is a month filled with a lot of transitions and bringing to our attention a part of our population and community struggling with suicidal ideation. We can all be a support and start the conversation. I am sharing the NAMI resource toolkit link. Another website that is called "Seize the Awkward," gives a breakdown of ways to talk about mental health crisis, have a conversation about noticed behaviors or concerns with those you love, or clients you serve. This is an opportunity to create dialogue to prevent death by suicide. If you are a survivor of suicide loss there are resources available to you as well.

A Call To Action Message From NAMI

"Each September, NAMI recognizes Suicide Prevention Month as a time to raise awareness, spread hope, and spark meaningful action around one of the most urgent mental health issues of our time.

Our goal is to ensure that individuals, friends, and families have access to the tools, resources, and support they need to talk openly about suicide prevention, recognize warning signs, and seek help.

This month: Start a Conversation. Be the Difference.

With one conversation, asking someone how they’re really doing — and being ready to truly listen — can save lives. Because here’s what we know: No one has to face this alone. Help exists. Healing is possible. And all it can take is for one person to start a conversation."

View NAMI Website

We Can Show Up Together

Together we can continue providing awareness and resources for all those in need within our community, people in our virtual community, advocacy with family and friends, and networking with each other to keep us all together in solidarity.

Links:

How to start the conversation , Seize The Awkward Website

For the survivors of suicide loss:

https://sprc.org/tools/resources-survivors-suicide-loss/

http://www.friendsforsurvival.org

http://heartbeatsurvivorsaftersuicide.org

Didi Hirsch's Suicide Prevention Center ( https://didihirsch.org/services/suicide-prevention/)

The Coalition of Clinician-Survivors: https://www.cliniciansurvivor.org

Here are some Live Crisis - Suicide Prevention Resources:

https://calyouth.org/cycl/

https://988lifeline.org/

https://www.crisistextline.org/

https://www.rainn.org/

https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline

https://www.thetrevorproject.org/get-help/

Here are some support hotlines :

Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: 988

CA Youth Crisis Line: 1-800-843-5200

Crisis Textline: Text "HOME" to 741-741

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK(8255)

RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673

SAMHSAs National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357

The Trevor Project LGBTQIA2S+ Affirming Crisis Hotline: 1-866-488-7386

Mental Health America: 1-800-985-5990

International Suicide Hotlines:

https://blog.opencounseling.com/suicide-hotlines/

Intervention Toolkits :

https://www.nami.org/get-involved/awareness-events/suicide-prevention-month/

https://afsp.org/

https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/index.html

https://mhsoac.ca.gov/initiatives/suicide-prevention/collaborative/

https://www.suicideispreventable.org/

https://mhanational.org/suicide-prevention

https://takeaction4mh.com/

https://www.calhope.org/

August is National Wellness Month

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 18:35:04 GMT

Hello SGVPA Folx,

August is National Wellness Month

August is National Wellness Month. So I invite you all to take an opportunity to introduce some wellness into your life. The resources for this month are to include self-care into your daily life and professional life. As therapists we are all part of the frontline response to many clients and families. This is an opportunity to model and practice wellness to your clientele. As well as water your own inner well within. Wishing you all wellness in the coming months. .

Wellness Resources

This link is for the incorporation of wellness in the workplace.

This link is for the incorporating wellness all year long.

This is a link with five weeks of wellness.

Together We Create Community

Together we can tend to ourselves, our clients, and the San Gabriel Valley. I firmly believe we can all lead by example and these are some great resources to lead the way for wellness for the rest of the year. Please feel free to share your tips and tricks for wellness the next time we meet. I look forward to seeing you all in September at our SGVPA Wellness Retreat for Fire Relief .

Sincerely,

Emily Morales, Psy.D., LMFT, Diversity Chair

July is Disability Pride Month

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 01:31:57 GMT

Hello SGVPA Folx,

July is Disability Pride Month!

July commemorates the signing into law of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Which gives us an opportunity to learn how to be a support to those with disabilities in our community. The Easter Seals website is a great resource for clients seeking support for their disabilities. It is a resource worth getting acquainted with. Check out these resources today! Please feel free to share with colleagues, clients, and community members.

A Resource Page from Easter Seals

"On July 26,1990, after a hard-fought battle from disability advocates and allies, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law. This landmark legislation ensured disabled people had greater access to employment, transportation, and the community. The first official Disability Pride celebration was in 2015, on the 25th anniversary of the ADA. Now, every July, we celebrate Disability Pride Month to center and celebrate disabled people."

View the Easter Seals Website

Together We Can Join Arms to End the Stigma

Differently abled people are part of our community sharing lives side by side with regularly abled folx. They are a vibrant community of individuals with so much to offer. We honor them by acknowledging their contributions to the world and their communities.

Sincerely,

Emily Morales, Psy.D., LMFT, Diversity Chair

July is Minority Mental Health Awareness Month

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 01:31:53 GMT

Hello SGVPA Folx,

July is BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month. July is dedicated to the mental health of the BIPOC community.

With the website below you can download the BIPOC mental health toolkit in both English and Spanish. Check out these resources today! Please feel free to share with colleagues, clients, and community members.

Check out these accessible resources today!

"Each July, we honor the legacy of author, advocate, and trailblazer Bebe Moore Campbell by recognizing Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month (also referred to as BIPOC Mental Health Month). Moore Campbell’s ability to tell impactful stories highlighting themes of racism, mental health, and family left a lasting mark on this world and is a foundation for much of the work that continues in support of Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) mental health."

View MHA National Website

Together We Can Advocate for Marginalized Groups

Sincerely,

Emily Morales, Psy.D., LMFT, Diversity Chair

82 Years Ago - Zoot Suit Riot

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 01:39:36 GMT

Hello SGVPA Folx,

June 3-8th, 1943 marks the 82nd year anniversary of the Zoot Suit Riots. Very reminiscent to the anti-immigrant rhetoric and racial tension in Los Angeles today.

With the current political climate, ICE raids, National Guard being deployed, Marine's being deployed, and people being unlawfully detained I felt that it was urgent to point to a historical parallel. The police, servicemen, and anti-immigrant xenophobic propaganda boiled over and targeted Mexican American, African American, and Filipino American zoot suiters. There were non-zoot suiters that were targeted during these racial riots. To learn more check out the Huntington Archives on the zoot suit riots. The Huntington Archives . Check out an original Zoot Suit at the LACMA .

Resources for Undocumented Folks

With the protests, ICE detainments, and xenophobic rhetoric people need to be aware of their rights and what to do if the worst case scenario were to happen.

Undocumented People Resources:

Immigrants Rising: https://immigrantsrising.org/

CHIRLA: https://www.chirla.org/

CARECEN: https://www.carecen-la.org/

Immigrants are Los Angeles: https://www.immigrantsarela.com/knowyourrights

Crisis Resources: What to do if a loved one is detained?

Crisis Resources:

National Immigrant Justice Center: https://immigrantjustice.org/for-immigrants/know-your-rights/what-do-if-you-or-loved-one-detained/

National Immigration Law Center: https://www.nilc.org/resources/know-your-rights-what-to-do-if-arrested-detained-immigration/

ACLU: https://www.aclu.org/know-your-rights/immigrants-rights

Stop AAPI Hate: https://stopaapihate.org/2025/03/21/know-your-rights-with-ice/

June is Pride Month

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 21:54:46 GMT

Hello SGVPA Folx,

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Pride Month. Let's show support to our LGBTQ2SIA+ Community Members!

This is the month to show your pride and allyship to our SGV LGBTQ2SIA+ community. The month of June was selected for PRIDE month in honor of the June 28, 1969 Stonewall Uprising. For more information on the history of LGBTQ2SIA+ pride month please check out the Library of Congress . Visibility of "The Second Largest Minority," Library of Congress Article , was built on the backs of social activists in the queer community. The suffering and pride of our queer community has led to some of the greatest grassroots changes that have shifted the narrative of the queer community. Stand up against stigma, erasure, and marginalization by checking out some resources, advocating, and being an affirming therapist.

Resources in Becoming an LGBTQ2SIA+ Affirming Therapist

Even if we graduated last week or a decade ago including more tools and staying up to date with the research and training is the first step in becoming and remaining an affirming therapist. Check out these resources to continue your life-long learning experience.

Free Online Trainings:

https://thesafezoneproject.com/

https://www.thetrevorproject.org/public-education/

https://pflag.org/resource/pao-advocacy-all-levels/

Paid Online Trainings:

https://affirmativecouch.com/

https://www.outcarehealth.org/training/

Crisis Resources and Mental Health Resources

Mental Health Resources:

Los Angeles LGBT Center: (323) 993-7500 https://lalgbtcenter.org/services/mental-health-psychiatry-services/

National Queer & Trans Therapist of Color Network: https://nqttcn.com/en/

Gay Therapy Center: https://www.thegaytherapycenter.com/

Crisis Resources:

The Trevor Project: (866) 488-7386 https://www.thetrevorproject.org/

Trans Lifeline: (877) 565-8860 https://translifeline.org/

LGBT National Help Center: (888) 843-4564 https://translifeline.org/

Pride Institute for Addiction Recovery Services: (833) 403-5400 https://pride-institute.com/

May is Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 01:37:31 GMT

Hello SGVPA Folx,

May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Belated greetings and celebratory wishes to our Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander community. There was a learning curve for our new website and I am so excited to get our diversity blog posts. This post will be resources for the AANHPI community and historical background. In 1992, congress designated May as the Asian/Pacific American Heritage month. May was selected in honor of the first Japanese people who emigrated to the United States in 1843. As a Californian I acknowledge the history of Manzanar. There were ten war relocation centers in other states but one held here in California. To learn more about the displaced Japanese American families please click on the URL provided More on Manzanar

Resources to Stop Asian Hate

The AANHPI communities have been the target of violence, disenfranchisement, discrimination, and other xenophobic policies at the federal, state, and local levels. Ina an effort to put a stop AAPI Hate is a U.S.-based coalition dedicated to fighting racism and discrimination against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAs & PIs). To access the resources to stop AAPI Hate check out their website in the URL link below. This coalition strives to advance the multiracial movement for equity and justice by raising awareness about anti-AAPI hate, working in solidarity with allied communities, and advocating for comprehensive solutions that tackle the root causes of race-based hate.

View Stop AAPI Hate Website

Mental Health Resources

Links:

https://namica.org/resources/asian-pacific-islander-resources/

https://www.asianmhc.org/

https://www.pacificclinics.org/service/behavioral-health/

https://www.naapimha.org/

Advocacy:

https://www.apiahf.org/about

https://sapha.org/about/mission-history/

March is International Women's Day

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 02:49:22 GMT

Hello SGVPA Folx,

This month I will be focusing on International Women's Day for our diversity resource guide. I want to make a "Shout Out" to all the women who are out there day in and day out in our world advocating for all women, children, families, and humanity. International Women's Day is observed on March 8, 2025.

We are living in such times where women are making a stand to be in all areas of government, advocacy, health care, mental health support, protecting our world in every capacity, and joining together to be part of many solutions. I salute you all for what you do for our world, community, and homes. Please partake in accessing these resources for those in need or pass to colleagues who are looking for more resources.

Message From International Women's Day

"International Women's Day (IWD) has been around for over a hundred years, as have many of the issues still impacting women's advancement. Since 1911, IWD belongs to all who care about women's equality. Celebrate women's achievement. Raise awareness about discrimination. Take action to forge gender parity. All IWD activity is valid, that's what makes IWD so inclusive."

Read More on IWD

Links

Background on International Women's Day (IWD)

https://www.un.org/en/observances/womens-day/background

Women's Mental Health:

https://www.mcleanhospital.org/essential/why-we-need-pay-attention-womens-mental-health

https://womensmentalhealth.org/

https://womenshealth.gov/mental-health

https://www.agendaalliance.org/our-work/projects-and-campaigns/womens-mental-health-facts/

Women's Centers:

https://downtownwomenscenter.org/

https://www.elawc.org/

https://losangelesmission.org/anne-douglas-center-for-women/

https://www.cwlc.org/

https://www.uclahealth.org/programs/womens-health

https://www.ywcasgv.org/

March is Transgender Day of Visibility

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 02:49:21 GMT

Hello SGVPA Folx,

Transgender Day of Visibility is March 31, 2025.

A Message From GLADD

"International TDOV was created in 2010 by trans advocate Rachel Crandall. Crandall, the head of Transgender Michigan, created TDOV in response to the overwhelming majority of media stories about transgender people being focused on violence. She hoped to create a day where people could celebrate the lives of transgender people, while simultaneously acknowledging that due to discrimination, not every trans person can or wants to be visible."

Read More on GLAAD

Links
https://www.hrc.org/campaigns/international-transgender-day-of-visibility

https://fenwayhealth.org/transgender-day-of-visibility-2025-celebrating-our-community-amidst-a-shifting-political-landscape/

https://www.thetrevorproject.org/blog/celebrating-transgender-day-of-visibility-with-black-and-trans-trevor/

https://dosomething.org/article/celebrate-trans-day-of-visibility

https://lalgbtcenter.org/event/viva-trans-a-celebration-of-trans-visibility-una-celebracion-de-la-visibilidad-trans/

Trans Equality Resources:

https://transequality.org/additional-help

https://www.trans-health.com/

https://www.thetrevorproject.org/resources/category/mental-health/

May is Mental Health Awareness Month

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 02:49:18 GMT

Hello SGVPA Folx,

It's that time of the year again!! National Mental Health Awareness Month. Dust off those green ribbons and represent!

This is the time of the year for all of us to renew our toolkits, spreading awareness to help break the stigma, and overall advocacy for the mental health needs of our community. I get pumped for all the fairs, the awareness walks, and collaboration with fellow mental health practitioners. Taking it out to the community in person or virtually this month is a salute to those in the mental health helping field, all those who have survived mental health distress, and for those who are still struggling with the impact of mental health distress.

A Call To Action Message From NAMI

"This May, take action, raise your voice, and help change the conversation around mental health! Since 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month has been a driving force in addressing the challenges faced by millions of Americans living with mental health conditions. Now, more than ever, National Awareness of Mental Illness (NAMI) needs you to be part of this movement. Whether by sharing your story, spreading awareness, or advocating for change, every action helps break the stigma and build a more supportive world for all."

 View NAMI Website

Together We Can Join Arms to End the Stigma

Links:

https://www.nami.org/get-involved/awareness-events/mental-health-awareness-month/

https://www.samhsa.gov/about/digital-toolkits/mental-health-awareness-month

https://mhanational.org/mental-health-month/

https://www.brownhealth.org/be-well/importance-mental-health-awareness-month

https://www.samhsa.gov/about/digital-toolkits/prevention-week

Ways to find support:

https://www.samhsa.gov/find-support

https://www.nami.org/

https://mhanational.org/

https://www.calhope.org/

https://www.211.org/

https://www.1degree.org/

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/caring-for-your-mental-health

April is National Minority Health Month

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 02:47:41 GMT

Hello SGVPA Folx,

April is National Minority Health Month. Where access to resources, toolkits, and outreach is highlighted for populations that are often marginalized. Here are some resources and articles that can offer some insight on how to promote awareness this month. Please feel free to share with peers, colleagues, or clients that are looking for some support.

A Message From the CDC

"This April, celebrate National Minority Health Month (NMHM) by being the source of better health. NMHM is a time to raise awareness of the importance of improving the health of people in racial and ethnic minority communities. The 2024 theme focuses on understanding how our cultures, communities, and connections impact our overall health. Learn more about social determinants of health (SDOH) and take action within your communities to Be the Source for Better Health!"

Read More From the CDC

Links

https://newsroom.heart.org/events/april-is-national-minority-health-month-stress-awareness-month-and-move-more-month-featuring-national-walking-day

https://www.hhs.gov/national-minority-health-month/toolkit/index.html

https://www.cms.gov/outreach-and-education/medicare-learning-network-mln/mlnproducts/downloads/minority-health-april2012.pdf

https://www.nimhd.nih.gov/programs/edu-training/nmhm/

https://ehs.lbl.gov/2024/05/06/april-is-national-minority-health-month /

February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month

Sat, 19 Apr 2025 08:53:22 GMT

Hello SGVPA Folx,

February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month.

A Message From Love Is Respect

"Dating violence is more common than you may think, especially among teens and young adults: 1 in 3 U.S. teens will experience physical, sexual, or emotional abuse from someone they’re in a relationship with before becoming adults. And nearly half (43%) of U.S. college women report experiencing violent or abusive dating behaviors."

Read More on Love Is Respect

Resources on Teen Dating Violence Month

https://youth.gov/feature-article/teen-dating-violence-awareness-and-prevention-month

https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ofvps/teen-dating-violence-awareness-month-tdvam

https://www.joinonelove.org/learn/teen_dating_violence_awareness_month/

Resources For Teens

https://www.loveisrespect.org/get-involved/tdvam/

https://www.teendvmonth.org/

February is Black History Month

Sat, 19 Apr 2025 08:48:37 GMT

Hello SGVPA Folx,

It is a time of honoring, acknowledging, and celebrating Black History Month. Offering many thanks to our Black and African American members of our community for bringing forth such advocacy, community building, and outreach to such a diverse and uplifting part of our BIPOC community.

We were all witness to the decimation of community, homes, and ways of life in the Eaton fire. May we all lean in and offer strength to each other as our neighborhood grieves and becomes resilient once more in the rebuild. Here are some articles to offer you some more insight to the enrichment of creative Black and African American members of our Pasadena and Altadena community.

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/jan/18/altadena-fire-black-families

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/eaton-fire-devastates-altadena-historic-black-community-history-book-lit-on-fire/

https://laist.com/news/climate-environment/in-altadena-where-many-black-families-became-homeowners-displaced-residents-grapple-with-grief-and-uncertainty

https://altadenaheritage.org/racial-change-over-time/

https://altadenaheritage.org/crucible-of-art-altadena-as-a-special-space-in-black-history/

History of Black History Month

"The timing of African American History Month evolved from the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass in the second week of February. Historian and author Dr. Carter G. Woodson framed the concept that became the first Negro History Week in February 1926. It developed into a monthlong commemoration of the struggles and triumphs of the African American community." ( https://www.uscourts.gov/about-federal-courts/educational-resources/annual-observances/african-american-history-month )

https://blackhistorymonth.gov/

Resources for serving the Black/African American Community:

https://www.inclusivetherapists.com/

https://www.nami.org/your-journey/identity-and-cultural-dimensions/black-african-american/

https://sph.umich.edu/pursuit/2024posts/black-mental-health-disparities-2024.html

https://dworakpeck.usc.edu/news/why-mental-health-care-stigmatized-black-communities

https://www.samhsa.gov/behavioral-health-equity/black-african-american

https://988lifeline.org/help-yourself/black-mental-health/

Wildfire Help Resources

Sat, 19 Apr 2025 08:42:32 GMT

With all the fires popping up, evacuation orders, losses, remembrances of grief from the years past, and assessing your own personal safety. we wanted to provide some resources and tangible items to assist with the survivor mode brain that is happening in our community. We know this is all happening in real time and can change at a moments notice. Our heart goes out to you all. All those directly affected by this natural disaster, our deepest condolences and those waiting to hear back may you stay safe. This is a time as a community for all of us to lean on each other. We know these resources can't fix it all. We just hope it gives some hope to you all.

Resources:

https://www.wildfirela.org/resources/

https://resilientca.org/case-studies/los-angeles-county-integrated-wildfire-safety-pl/

https://wildfirerecovery.caloes.ca.gov/page/2/?cat=-1

https://www.cdss.ca.gov/disaster-help-center

https://lacounty.gov/emergency/

https://sd27.senate.ca.gov/fire-resources

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/disaster-relief-and-recovery-services/find-an-open-shelter.html

https://emergency.lacity.gov/updates

https://emergency.lacity.gov/alerts/notifyla

https://www.211.org/

Pasadena:

https://www.gov.ca.gov/2025/01/07/california-secures-federal-assistance-to-support-response-to-eaton-fire-in-los-angeles-county/

https://www.cityofpasadena.net/fire/

Palisades:

https://news.caloes.ca.gov/california-secures-federal-assistance-to-support-response-to-palisades-fire-in-los-angeles-county/

https://lafd.org/news/palisades-fire-0

Spanish Language California Fire Resources:

https://www.hellobrightline.com/es-US/brightlifekids/

https://latinxtherapy.com/

https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/la-salud-mental

https://www.padilla.senate.gov/recursos-para-desastres/

https://www.fema.gov/es/press-release/20250113/fema-offers-recovery-tips-california-wildfire-survivors

https://988lifeline.org/es/inicio/

https://www.es.211.org/

Resources for Clinicians to Handout:

https://multiculturalmentalhealth.ca/consumer-information/mental-health-information-resources-in-spanish/

https://mhanational.org/recursos-en-espanol

January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month

Sat, 19 Apr 2025 06:02:57 GMT

"In 2010, by presidential proclamation, President Obama declared January “National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month” and every year since, each president has followed this tradition." ( https://www.state.gov/national-human-trafficking-prevention-month/ ) "Human trafficking is a largely hidden crime involving one or more people exploiting another person for labor, services, or commercial sex. The trafficker uses force or violence, fraud or false promises, or coercion and manipulation to lure victims and exploit them through physical, financial, or psychological means. There is no profile of a trafficked person – trafficking affects people from all economic classes, racial and ethnic identities, gender identities, and sexual orientations, and both adults and children can be trafficked. However, human trafficking disproportionately impacts Native American, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ communities." ( https://dcyf.wa.gov/news/january-national-human-trafficking-prevention-month )

Resources and Information:

https://www.state.gov/national-human-trafficking-prevention-month/

https://www.dhs.gov/blue-campaign/indicators-human-trafficking

https://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/health-awareness/national-slavery-and-human-trafficking-prevention-month-january

https://dcyf.wa.gov/news/january-national-human-trafficking-prevention-month

https://www.state.gov/20-ways-you-can-help-fight-human-trafficking/

Message from Dr. Kao, SGVPA (Former) President

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 02:49:16 GMT

Hi everyone,

Every time there’s a conflict in the world, a sudden disaster, or a major event, I’m tasked with putting out a statement or “respond appropriately.” Whether it’s the COVID-19 pandemic, another mass shooting, Asian American hate crimes, the Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, I admit that these statements feel a little cold, despite its necessity.

I’m sure I’ve even missed a couple, losing count of which disaster is most current. As I’m typing this message, I just read that there was another mass shooting in Maine.

However, in this time and place, with the current conflict/war between Israel and Hamas, I’m more interested in a simple question to our members.

How are you all doing?

I’m sure there are many and various opinions, feelings and thoughts around the most current conflict, but adding that onto all the other conflicts that have occurred and continue to occur, I really just want to know how everyone’s holding up. I think it’s safe to say that we’ve all been affected in some intimate way by the many crises that has occurred over the years, and I hope anyone with family/friends in Israel and Palestine are safe and physically unharmed. My heart goes out to anyone over these years that have suffered.

For those who are interested and willing to share, let’s start an email stream of how we’re all coping in these times.

Personally, my Summer has been filled with grief and chaos, but also hope. I’ve been trying to pick up the pieces of multiple family losses in a short period of time, as well as navigating the chaos that ensues. It’s been easy for me to become ambivalent, easy for me to want to give in to despair. Despite this, I’ve been hopeful from the emotional support and understandable concern I’ve received from those around me. I’m hopeful and grateful for the good work that I can do, and the team that I have.

I’d love to hear from the rest of you. Please feel free to reply.

I’m also planning a Lunch with the President in January on a Friday at noon. At

Congregation Ale House

300 S Raymond Ave, Pasadena, CA 91105

Please look out for additional details and RSVP. I will get a couple of pizzas and a pitcher for everyone. I hope to see everyone there.

And last, be on the lookout for an email of upcoming events, include our 2024 January Jubilee!