The shooting in Colorado on November 19 is on the minds of many young people - and adults.
The attack, which took place at Club Q, a gay nightclub in Colorado Springs, left five people dead and injured more than two dozen others. It also left people in the LGBTQ community grieving, along with friends and allies across the U.S. and the world. The attack came on the eve of the Transgender Day of Remembrance, which honors the memory of transgender people who lost their lives to anti-transgender violence.
GLAAD, the LGBTQ media advocacy organization, has issued statements from Colorado-based LGBTQ groups, and announced the creation of a fund for survivors and families of those killed at the Colorado Springs shooting.
It can be helpful to allow young people time and space to reflect on upsetting news like this, and share their thoughts and feelings. Here are guidelines and approaches for discussing difficult issues in your classroom.
Healing Circle: Attack in Colorado Springs
In a healing circle, students share their responses to the attack on an LGBTQ nightclub in Colorado Springs.
Suggestions for Discussing Violent Events in the News
General guidelines for talking sensitively with students who may be upset about recent acts of violence in the news.
Discussing Tragic Events in the News
Here are some basic questions to help students share thoughts and feelings about an upsetting event, and additional guidance.
A Grief and Healing Wall
This activity gives young people or adults an opportunity to share deeply about what they are grieving, how they are healing, and what support they need.
How Do I Handle a Heavy Circle?
Well-facilitated circles can give students a chance to listen and share their thoughts and feelings about difficult or emotional subjects. Here are some suggestions for facilitating a circle in which strong emotions surface.