We offer condolences and care to the families and communities impacted by the mass shooting that took place in Monterey Park on Saturday night. What began as a night of celebration ended in needless tragedy and loss.
P.S. ARTS stands strongly against gun violence, which has become the leading cause of premature death in the United States, harming children and tragically impacting communities. This was the 36th mass shooting since the start of the new year only 23 days ago, and firearm injuries are now the leading cause of death among people younger than 24 in the United States. This is unacceptable. We reiterate our dedication to our students’ physical and emotional safety as well as the importance of cultivating awareness and connectedness through arts and education. We are committed to building a safer world and ask that you do the same. Please find resources below about gun safety and how to navigate conversations and help children process feelings around community trauma and shootings.
- Tips for Talking With and Helping Children and Youth Cope After a Disaster or Traumatic Event: A GUIDE FOR PARENTS, CAREGIVERS, AND TEACHERS
- LAist: what to say to kids when the news is scary
- Helping Youth After Community Trauma: Tips for Educators
- Talking to Children about the Shooting (The National Child Traumatic Stress Network)
- Talking to Children About Violence: Tips for Parents and Teachers (National Association of School Psychologists)
- Coping in the Aftermath of a Shooting (American Counseling Association)
- The impact of gun violence on Children and Teens
