AMTA Statement of Concern Regarding Acts of Violence

The American Music Therapy Association (AMTA) is disturbed by the increasing number of violent acts that unfortunately have become a frequent occurrence in our nation. The senseless shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, the targeted bomb mailings to select U.S. leaders, and the bigoted killings at a Kentucky grocery store within the past week are just the latest in a long list of hate-filled attacks on our community members. AMTA urges our local, state, and federal leaders to work together to implement real solutions that will protect our communities, regardless of our political or religious beliefs.

Our sincere condolences extend to the families and friends of the victims and to all that have been affected by these horrific crimes.   

For clinicians working in schools or with persons in the community struggling with these many events, the following resources may be helpful:

• National Association of School Psychologists: https://www.nasponline.org
• Department of Health and Human Services

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

Information on trauma and violence: https://www.samhsa.gov/trauma-violence

• SAMHSA's information on trauma-informed care: https://www.samhsa.gov/nctic

For more information and resources supporting civil rights in response to hate crimes, please visit https://www.adl.org.

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