On behalf of the Society of Clinical Psychology (Division 12 of APA) Diversity Committee and Board of Directors

Dear fellow Division 12 members.

Like you, we are deeply troubled and saddened not only by the events of the past weeks, but in addition by the generations of unequal treatment and healthcare inequities experienced by people of minority status. As an organization whose mission is to promote mental health and human welfare, we want you to know that the Society of Clinical Psychology, Division 12 of the American Psychological Association, stands against racism and is in harmony with #BlackLivesMatter. We denounce all forms of racism, discrimination, and violence against Black individuals and communities as well as other minority groups. The recent killings of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, Eric Garner, and Philando Castile—to name just a few—represent the ongoing violence against Black people in America and unfortunately represent only a fraction of the killings of Black individuals across the United States in our 400-year history of oppression. Division 12 is committed to working within our division and across organizations to dismantle all forms of systemic racial inequities, discrimination and oppression, and to protect and elevate the lives of all Black individuals and other minorities. We recognize that this is a difficult time for us as a society and for many of our clients/patients, and our communities. Some are coping with past experiences of racism, while also experiencing current racism, or a lack of support. Some of you may be experiencing heavier clinical loads and the work may be more stressful and painful right now. We want you to know the work you are doing now may be some of the most important and meaningful work you do. We aim as a society to continue to provide mental health services to those in need during these very difficult times. We also want you to be mindful of your own health and well-being and consider personal health care and breaks in balance with your work. The mission of Division 12 of the American Psychological Association is to enhance well-being and improve mental health of individuals through equal treatment and the science and practice of clinical psychology. Instances of inequality work against mental health, and the well-being of each important individual in our communities and society more broadly. Division 12 has an active Committee on Diversity, and funding for Student Awards and events. We plan to continue to do outreach work with our webinar series, Diversity Spotlight in the Clinical Psychologist and delivering messages on the Division 12 webpage that promotes equality.

Society of Clinical Psychology Diversity Committee and Board of Directors