A Message from the DEC Executive Board and Executive Office

To Our DEC Community,

We want to allow space and time to be present with you as we are all struggling to process the tragic and senseless massacre of 19 children and 2 elementary teachers at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. This shooting comes on the heels of one of the deadliest racist massacres in recent history at a supermarket, in the middle of an ordinary day in Buffalo, New York.

We cannot imagine the pain and anguish these events are causing for people personally connected to the victims. No one should have to bear the intense grief of losing a child or loved one in this manner. Our hearts go out to the people and communities directly affected.

We also want to acknowledge the impact these events have on all of us across the country and around the world. It is human nature to watch or read reports of incidents like this and ask ourselves, “What if this happened here?” Life can be so fragile and unpredictable, and it is truly impossible to remain unaffected. A Pew Research Center survey conducted before the Buffalo shooting highlights how top-of-mind safety concerns are for Black Americans.

In the early childhood community, we are all connected, and we encourage everyone to pay attention to your mental health and the feelings of those around you in these troubling times. The pandemic, war in Ukraine, mass shootings, and violence in our communities – it is all so emotionally affecting.

Thank you for taking a moment to read this message. We hope we all take some time to practice self-care and recognize those around us who may need some extra support at this time.

The DEC Executive Board and Executive Office