FIERCE in Our Community: Our Responsibility
In response to the escalating attacks on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives specifically targeting Black, Latinx, immigrants, and other people of color in California and across the nation - the need for a compassionate and strategic response has never been more urgent.
Understanding the Impact
We acknowledge the emotional toll this chaotic landscape, fueled by media narratives, has on our communities. Fear and uncertainty are palpable, and we must recognize these attacks' deep psychological impacts on individuals.
The systematic erosion of programs designed to uplift marginalized communities and the attempts to erase our rich histories and contributions pose a direct threat to our collective well-being. As these vital resources are stripped away, our advocacy must amplify the voices of those affected while mobilizing to protect and sustain these essential programs.
These attacks are not just policy changes—they have real consequences for individuals.
For instance, when a client expresses fear about leaving their home, we engage in meaningful dialogue about their feelings and the broader socio-political climate. We emphasize the importance of candid conversations with children, framing our discussions around resilience,solidarity, and age-appropriate understanding.
At the core of our mission is the well-being of those most vulnerable—undocumented individuals, low-income families, those whose livelihoods depend on federal funding, and those who are directly persecuted due to their culture and ethnicity. Their voices must remain central in shaping our response.
Our Collective Responsibility
We reject the divisive narrative of “us vs. them.” As deep-seated anti-Blackness and other forms of systemic oppression blatantly resurface and are amplified, we must recognize that these attacks are not isolated—what threatens one of us threatens all of us. Solidarity across marginalized communities is imperative, as our fates are intertwined.
1. Creating Spaces for Healing
We will create safe spaces for individuals to share their experiences, process emotions, and find support. Through our existing well-being spaces such as our well-being peer support groups known as Sanctuary Groups and monthly wellness activities, we will foster connection and collective resilience. We will listen to the individuals and families we partner with to learn more about what their wellness needs are now during these times of increased stress and uncertainty and adapt as necessary
2. Reshaping Leadership and Advocacy
Representation matters. We will advocate for inclusive decision-making, ensuring that policies affecting our communities are shaped by those with lived experience. By equipping our community members to lead, we strengthen our collective ability to resist and rebuild.
3. Providing Essential Resources
We will share resources that include mental health support, legal aid for those affected by policy change, and financial assistance for families facing economic uncertainty. By collaborating with local organizations, we can ensure that our community has access to essential services.
Moving Forward Together
In these challenging times, FIERCE Advocates stand ready to lead with compassion and conviction. We are committed to uplifting our communities and reinforcing the foundational principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion for all. Together, we will not only withstand this crisis - we will emerge stronger, more unified, and more determined than ever.
