Message To Golden Valley Community Regarding Chauvin Trial

Press release from the City of Golden Valley:

March 9, 2021

The trial of former Minneapolis Police Officer Derek Chauvin started Mon, March 8 in Minneapolis. The City of Golden Valley recognizes the months to come will be re-traumatizing for countless people, particularly for those who have had previous traumatic encounters with police. The City of Golden Valley believes we must prioritize the safety of residents and support all of our community members during this time.

We want Golden Valley residents to know we will:

• continue to provide relevant information to community regarding the trial and the impacts on the City
• continue to provide pertinent information regarding City business (ie, meetings, weather/facility updates, job postings, etc)
• expect that you act with empathy: listen with empathy, support your community members, and take care of yourself and your family

Now more than ever it is important we have conversations that allow us to seek understanding from each other, listen to multiple perspectives, and activate empathy. The following prompts can help guide reflection and conversations:

• What emotions do events surrounding the trial of Derek Chauvin and death of George Floyd raise for you?
• What would you like others to know about what you are thinking, feeling, and experiencing?
• What do you need from others to understand, cope, process and be safe as things continue to unfold?
• What support can you offer others while they are processing thoughts and feelings during the trial?

If you or anyone else in the community requires additional support regarding stress and trauma management, the following resources are available:

• Bamboo Professions – Provides Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM)
• Volunteers of America – Provides outpatient trauma recovery and resilience service
• Empower Survivors – Provides a list of agencies that offer trauma-informed care
• NorthPoint Clinic – Provides virtual trauma groups
• Walk In Counseling Center – Provides free counseling by phone or video, no appointment required

This press release was produced by the City of Golden Valley. The views expressed here are the author’s own.