City of Philadelphia offers virtual healing sessions in response to pending Derek Chauvin trial verdict

On Abril 16th I stood with Mayor Jim Kenney and a number of officials to call for peace in response to a forthcoming verdict in the Derek Chauvin trial. Those I stood with all want justice for George Floyd’s killing, we also must maintain safety in our city.

We can speak up, but we cannot tear up. We are prepared to do the right thing if the wrong decision is delivered in Minnesota. I understand the pain you are feeling. I feel it myself. And that’s why we must come together and uplift our community.

The city of Philadelphia is committed to doing in its response to peaceful demonstrations in multiple ways, one includes a virtual Community Healing Circle. The first of these events will happen Lunes, Abril 19 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

If you can’t make the forum or are uncomfortable in group situations, there are some important resources to help address trauma violence and mental health the city has also made available, many of which will be useful regardless of the verdict. Taking care of your mental health is necessary, especially after the last year or so we’ve all endured.

Finally, don’t forget to sign up for ReadyPhiladelphia for the latest updates about what is happening in the city. The alert system provides texts or email information on delays to SEPTA routes, special events, sirens from Philadelphia prisons or the PES refinery, and more. This, too, will be useful tool regardless of the Chauvin trial verdict.

In case you missed our conversation with Black men about COVID-19 Marzo 25, here is a clip from the dialogue:

There has been meaningful change and movement to address a number of issues in this city and across the nation. We must keep that momentum going by building up our community. We have seen what destruction does. Let’s come together and support each other during these trying times.