Assistant Professor University of Windsor Windsor, ON, Canada
In light of escalating global and domestic conflicts—ranging from violence in Congo, Sudan, and Gaza, to rising anti-immigrant sentiment and systemic racism in the United States—racialized and allied social workers face profound empathic stress and vicarious trauma. This healing circle aims to provide a supportive space for social workers engaged in advocacy amidst these crises. We will explore the impact of secondary trauma stemming from xenophobia, anti-Black racism, anti-Muslim racism, and anti-Palestinian racism, as well as the effects of political discourse that exploits these issues for partisan gain. The session will focus on strategies for managing empathic stress, secondary trauma, and fostering resilience through communal support and discussion. Join us in addressing the emotional and professional challenges of navigating these interconnected struggles and finding collective pathways to healing.