Black Businesses Matter

September 20, 2020 / Community Engagement Action,Lifestyle Action,Taking Action / No Comments 0

While it may seem daunting to ”fix” racism in our communities, it is helpful to remember that system changes have to start with small steps. What can we do on a local level? How may our Black brothers and sisters be impacted socially, economically, or emotionally? This week we simply ask that you support a Black-owned business! Shop beauty, foods, books, music, appliances, clothing, accessories, decor and more!

Source: KQED.
Chef Chew, Chef Leilani, Chef Nigel Jones
Photo credit: Evan Morsell, Sharome Skinner, Bethanie Hines

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Spark A Chat About Race

September 12, 2020 / Interpersonal Action,Newsletter,Taking Action,Uncategorized / No Comments 0

Now let’s take this test to the test! This week, share the implicit bias test with a change maker you trust. Think friend, family member, coworker, boss, religious leader, teacher, etc. Encourage the same exercise of self-examination and then a simple act of change that he or she might implement as a result.

Ending Racism Starts Within!

September 3, 2020 / Individual Action,Taking Action,Uncategorized / 1 Comment 0

In recent months especially, acts of police brutality, voter suppression, and backlash against kneeling in sports have highlighted the racism that continues to exist in not only the U.S. but all over the world. Black Lives Matter! People are outraged and voicing their concerns through (mostly) peaceful protests. Usually the noise dies down until the next story in the headlines but how do we keep the momentum going? Tackling racism is not just a black and white issue but a movement towards a more just and humane society for all. Ready, Steady, Go!

Let’s start the conversation with ourselves. This week we encourage you to take an implicit bias test created by an international collaborative that focuses on diversity training. Then self-examine how you can change to decrease your own biases.

ID 94960961 by Mushika

Animals Are People Too!

August 29, 2020 / Community Engagement Action,Global Action,Political Action,Taking Action / No Comments 0

In exploring the connection between humans and animals with the underlying question of whether there are mutual benefits, an area in which the benefit is perhaps undeniably one-sided is the global trade of wild animals for purposes of food, entertainment exotic pet sales, or traditional medicines. These animals are treated very differently according to national and sometimes local laws that offer minimal protection. This week we ask that you consider signing this petition against animal cruelty or supporting the cause in another way that speaks to you.

Animals in our Communities

August 23, 2020 / Community Engagement Action,Taking Action / No Comments 0

What do animals mean to our own communities? In this trying time of a pandemic and California wildfires, people are feeling isolated and both animals and people are unfortunately being displaced. Many folks are seeking support from animal shelters near and far either for adoption or for assistance with their animals who need new homes. This week, we ask that you simply spend time at a local animal shelter, park, farm, or wildlife sanctuary if you are able. Share what you notice about how your community interacts with animals!

Petting Zoo in Amsterdam https://www.iamsterdam.com

Pets Unite People!

August 14, 2020 / Interpersonal Action,Lifestyle Action,Taking Action / No Comments 0

Animals seem to help humans bond with each other! “Pet parents” often say that through the process of caring for their pet they got to know their own neighbors or other fellow pet parents on a more personal level. This week, we encourage you to reach out to someone you know who has a pet and ask about how their animal friend is doing. A small gesture may go a long way!

all-free-download.com

Living with Animals

August 7, 2020 / Individual Action,Lifestyle Action,Taking Action / No Comments 0

Research has shown that there are profound mutual benefits from the human-animal interaction that include mental and physical well-being (McCune et al, 2014). Let’s explore the various aspects of these bonds together! Ready, Steady, Go!

This week, we invite you to simply reflect on how we choose to live with animals. How do you feel about animals living with humans? Think dogs, cats, fish, birds, rabbits, hamsters, turtles, pigs, rats, snakes, lizards, gerbils, and more! Would you agree with the research presented that the benefit is mutual? Who among you decided to start living with an animal during the COVID-19 shutdown and why?

Library Learning

July 31, 2020 / Community Engagement Action,Global Action,Taking Action / 1 Comment 0

In the last week of our summer reading adventures, we encourage you to explore an endangered and precious global institution of reading, knowledge, cultural preservation, and community connection – your local library!

Check out what is happening at your local public library. There may be interesting events, virtual tours, classes, new books to read, and who knows what else! Let us know what you discover.

Let’s Talk About Books!

July 23, 2020 / Art in Action,Community Engagement Action,Interpersonal Action,Taking Action / No Comments 0

How has your summer reading been? We invite you to share your reading experience from the last 2 weeks with our community. Tell us about the book(s) you are currently enjoying in the comments below. We look forward to hearing from you!

Now, Ready, Steady, Go!

Who is Your Book Buddy?

July 17, 2020 / Art in Action,Interpersonal Action,Taking Action / No Comments 1

Image Credit: Cliparts #2599492

So, what did you read?! Following up from last week, this week we invite you to share your experience with someone, anyone. Discuss what you chose to read and in turn, ask about the last book they read for fun. Who knows – you might find your future favorite book!

Share your pleasure! Ready, Steady, Go!

About Meena Nair, MPH, MS, RN