The shocking and needless death of George Floyd on Monday continues to reverberate through our community. There is deep grief that is difficult to process.
That grief may manifest as rage, anger, sorrow, impatience, or a mix of emotions. At times, the feelings may engulf us, leaving us feeling powerless and hopeless. For many of the vulnerable individuals that Fraser serves, the situation is even more frightening and confusing.
Healing from these events will take time.
The trauma of this week and the effects of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic will linger in our collective conscience for a long time. There will likely be residual trauma. Many will experience anxiety and depression, long after the events have passed.
As a non-profit community provider, Fraser is committed to helping our community’s children, vulnerable adults, and families deal with the emotions stirred by these events. This is what we do best, and we will be here to listen and help Minnesotans heal.
If you or someone you love is feeling scared, confused, or overwhelmed, please contact us. The Fraser Hope Line is answered by a licensed mental health professional from 7 a.m.-7 p.m., Monday through Friday. If we don’t have the answer, we will help you find the answer.
When you are ready, Fraser will be here to listen and help. Our organization is built around the vision of a world where all people have equal opportunity and choice to realize their dreams to live, work, learn and play as members of our community. A culture of inclusion is embedded in our DNA, and we will continue to fight for equity in our state.
In the meantime, be kind to yourself and your neighbors. Take time to check in on how you are feeling. Give comfort. Help a friend. Hug your child. A community is built on interconnected lives. If we care for one another, we can help each other through this difficult time.
With gratitude,
Diane S. Cross
Fraser President and CEO