The Association for University and College Counseling Center directors (AUCCCD) strongly condemns the unlawful and unwarranted attacks in Washington, DC, brought upon by a lengthy campaign of manipulation and misinformation. While AUCCCD firmly supports the fundamental first amendment right of the people to peaceably assemble, the desecration of our Capitol, threat to our dedicated political leaders, violence, and misguided anger aimed at a fair election process unwinds the fabric of our Democracy. AUCCCD always opposes violence, obstruction of freedom and the creation of unnecessary fear and anxiety.

We are keenly aware how political unrest can affect the mental health of our students and campuses as well as the secondary trauma we may all feel as helpers, healers and advocates. As our society continues to suffer from a global pandemic and systemic racial inequality, AUCCCD again remains steadfast in protecting the mental health of our campuses, communities and each other.