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Dear Colleagues and Partners,

The recent unrests which are occurring across the Nation are forcing families and communities to engage in conversation on the topics of race, racism and the inequities that are faced by African Americans today.   We have received a number of requests for such information and wanted to share the following resources.  The hope is that the information below can be helpful when taking part in meaningful dialogue about race, and how to move forward equitably. These resources can not only be used in your personal life, but in health clinics, treatment centers, and recovery spaces.

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  This is website is “designed to support individuals and groups working to achieve racial equity. This site offers tools, research, tips, curricula, and ideas for people who want to increase their own understanding and to help those working toward justice at every level.”

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  “Currently, Black Americans are at a higher risk of substance use disorders being characterized as a criminal issue rather than medical issue. In fact, the  that even though “African Americans make up (only) 12.5% of illicit drug users,” a staggering 33% of those incarcerated for drugs are African American. The report also states that African American Americans are less likely to recover from drug and alcohol use even after treatment because our current recovery options are not set up to meet this particular population’s needs. Staffing is too white. Resources do not address the African American population’s unique life experiences or mental health needs.”

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  This is guide seems very helpful for how to talk about race. There are more resources at the bottom for people to peruse.

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  This guided resource is to help address certain phrases (e.g., “I don’ see color”) or viewpoints (e.g., “I can’t be racist because my husband/wife/child/etc. is black”) that can still perpetuate racist ideologies in spaces. There are activities, podcasts, videos, articles, and books to look at and read. There are also specific resources at the bottom for the Christian Community towards the end of the document.

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  This might be helpful for organizations to offer support for African American staff members and ways to make the organization more equitable for African American people.

Hoping you find these resources useful and beneficial.