APA Condemns Racism, Police Brutality and Calls for End to Racial Inequities

APA has issued statements in response to thedeath of George Floyd, an unarmed Black man in police custody in Minneapolis, and theresulting civil unrest this past weekend as demonstrators across the nation protested police brutality and institutional racism. APA believes that all forms of racism and racial discrimination affect mental health and well-being and negatively impact the nation. APA has called on authorities in Minneapolis to prosecute the officer who caused George Floyd ’s death, as well as the other officers involved, to the fullest extent of the law.“The unrest playing out in cities across America is a reaction to the racism that has scarred this country for centuries and never been properly addressed,” said APA President Jeffrey Geller, M.D., M.P.H. “The demonstrations are a result of racism against Black people that has gone unchecked— and at times has been fostered by leaders of this country. APA will not stand for racism against Black Americans.”“The horrific death of George Floyd has affected the mental well-being of everyone who has witnessed this senseless tragedy. When Americans are already suffering under the emotional toll of COVID-19, this blatant act of police brutality threatens to undermine the sense of stability of so many Amer icans,” Geller said.“The civil unrest taking place in America is a call to action to all Americans to address the longstanding racial inequalities facing the Black community,” said APA CEO and Medical Dir...
Source: Psychiatr News - Category: Psychiatry Tags: civil unrest discrimination George Floyd health inequalities institutional racism Jeffrey Geller mental health police brutality Saul Levin Source Type: research