Members of Parliament held a moment of silence on Monday to mark the one-month anniversary of the deadly attack on the Lapu Lapu Day festival in Vancouver, which claimed 11 lives and left dozens more injured.
The attack has left a lasting impact on those who witnessed it, as well as on the victims and their families. Advocacy group Filipino BC released a statement marking the anniversary, emphasizing that healing does not follow a straight line and requires time, care, and community support.
Key Points from Filipino BC’s Statement
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Healing Process:
- "While some may be able to return to their daily routines quickly after such an event, healing does not follow a straight line. It takes time, care, and community for people to heal."
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Hierarchy of Grief:
- Witnesses may hesitate to seek help due to an unspoken hierarchy of grief that prioritizes those who were physically harmed over those who lost loved ones.
- "This unspoken hierarchy of grief is dangerous. It’s not how healing works."
Survivor Perspectives
Sammie Jo Rumbaua from Mabuhay House shared her struggles with grief during this challenging time:
- "We’re still grieving. Survivors are really struggling right now."
- Rumbaua emphasized the uncertainty survivors face as they navigate their new reality without knowing what lies ahead.
Importance of Support Systems
The aftermath of the attack highlights the critical need for support systems for those affected by trauma and violence, including:
- Mental Health Services:
- These services can provide coping mechanisms during difficult times.
Rumbaua also encouraged individuals experiencing anxiety or depression after witnessing traumatic events, such as mass shootings, to seek professional help immediately if they feel overwhelmed:
- "Please don’t wait until you feel overwhelmed by these feelings before seeking professional help."
This call to action underscores the importance of community and professional support in the healing process for all affected by the tragedy.
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