Navigating Conversations About the Aftermath of Mass Attacks

Mind

Jun 28

June 23rd, LSU Athletics launched its inaugural “Chew on This” – Lunch and Learn series hosted by Ashleigh Clare-Kearney Thigpen and Eddie St-Vil. The purpose of Chew on This is to allow staff and coaches an opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue surrounding critical societal issues that allow us to help explore conflicting perceptions and foster understanding. Through its discussion-based format, Chew on This creates an opportunity to provide training and education that prioritizes our departments commitments and highlights our priorities.

Given the recent spike in the number of mass shootings in our country, it was imperative that the initial discussion be titled, “Navigating the Aftermath of Mass Attacks.” The Gun Violence Archive, a nonprofit research group, defines a mass shooting as an incident in which four or more people are shot or killed, not including the shooter. Conversely, the Federal Bureau of Investigation doesn't have a mass shooting definition. Instead, the FBI defines "mass murder" as an incident where four or more people are killed, which can include gun violence.

The Washington Post revealed intriguing facts that left the group in dismay:

· More than 230 mass shootings have taken place in the US just this year.

· Since the May 24, 2022 shooting in Uvalde, Texas, 38 mass shootings have occurred.

· The United States has gone 0 weeks without at least four mass shootings in a single week.

· Through the end of May 2022, mass shootings have killed 256 people and injured 1,010 more.

The contentious issues surrounding gun violence are what make it such a hot button topic. For example, gun reform and policy regulation that may violate first amendment rights; mental illness of those who commit these crimes; the implementation of background checks; the race of the shooter as well as the identities of those victimized; and the ability to purchase high powered assault rifles, to name a few.

Regardless of our individual positions are on these issues, we can all agree that something must be done. If we sit back and do nothing, the problem of gun violence and mass attacks will persist. Ultimately, legislators must implement policies that specifically address our current issues in order to effect significant change; however, individually we must ensure that we are fostering a culture of care, love, and support for those within our community.

So, how do we create a culture of care, love, and support?

· Model positive behavior

· Check-in on your loved ones

· Engage in dialogue with colleagues

· Showing patience when individuals are struggling

· Be empathetic rather than sympathetic

· Avoid “doom scrolling” and take regular breaks from the news and social media

· Engaging in stress relieving activities (i.e. yoga, meditation, exercise, slow paced games

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