6 Aug 2024 | Cat Vizor
At times of violence and division, it’s essential we stand together.
At Esteem’s core, we create spaces where young adults, all with different life experiences, can come together and thrive. The recent far-right riots cast a dark shadow over our society.
Racial violence is devastating. It not only threatens the physical safety of our communities but has profound psychological impacts. It can make people feel less connected and leads to long-term mental health issues for victims and perpetrators.
As a staff team, we have discussed how, with what’s going on in the world, we are finding it harder to have open conversations and honest disagreements with people, but that spaces to have these conversations are vital.
If you’re a local young adult aged 14-26 and feel affected by this, and need someone to speak to, you are welcome to come to Esteem for a wellbeing walk and talk or wellbeing session with our trained staff. https://esteem.org.uk/get-involved/
If you’re feeling disconnected, maybe this is a good opportunity to reconnect with your community, whatever that looks like for you. If you’re not sure and in our age range we offer volunteering opportunities at Esteem.
It’s essential we keep offering safer spaces. Bringing people together, and recognising violence isn’t the answer. Where everyone feels valued.
That’s one of the reasons our work, and the work of the thousands of incredible youth organisations around the world is so important. Together we are powerful, and together we will get through this.
With hope and care
Cat