EAP Honors Black History with Commitment to Equity in Well-being
During Black History Month, we pause to reflect on culturally defining movements against racism. From the early abolitionists to the Civil Rights movement and Black Lives Matter, we honor the achievements of Black and African Americans, and their commitments to securing equity and justice for all.
At the Washington State Employee Assistance Program, we acknowledge the resilience of Black and African Americans. We recognize the trauma and fatigue they endure because of racism in America. We also recognize that mental health practice in our country has contributed to this trauma, and that Black and African Americans are less likely to have access to mental health resources or to receive mental health care. Reasons for this include socioeconomic disparities, negative attitudes toward mental health issues, and lack of culturally competent care.
“Eliminating systemic racism and inequities is all of our work.”
— Washington State Office of Equity
We are committed to supporting Black employees in culturally relevant healing processes. Today, we invite Washington’s public service employees to participate with us in reducing the impacts of structural racism in our places of work.
- Seek to understand and address the trauma and impacts of racism on Black well-being.
- Learn about Washington state’s Business Resource Groups (BRGs) and attend events they offer.
- Join or start a 21-day racial equity challenge (here’s one from the City of Tumwater).
- Engage in self-guided learning with books, videos, and other resources from the Office of Equity.
- Reach out to EAP for resources and best practices that protect and promote your well-being.
“Injustice is unhealthy for everyone. Individual, organizational, and societal health, wealth, and well-being can only be achieved by acknowledging, forgiving, and repairing past and present injustices.”
— Karen A. Johnson, PhD, Director, Washington State Office of Equity
With a commitment to continual growth and self-reflection, we continue progress toward healthy, anti-racist workplace cultures that give every public service employee access to the power and opportunities they need for personal and professional well-being.
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The Washington State Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a free, confidential program created to promote the health, safety and well-being of public service employees. EAP provides counseling and other resources to support employee well-being, address workplace concerns, and help with legal and financial issues. Employees can reach out to EAP online or call 877–313–4455. The EAP is also available to provide confidential and expert consultation to management in a variety of areas. To find out if the Washington State EAP serves your agency or organization, contact your supervisor or human resources department.
