Social workers are seeing the impacts of the rise of islamophobia and anti-semitism over the last two months, and the impact on our clients, communities, and us as professionals. As a larger professional community we want to share resources, credible relief organizations, and educational opportunities to support each other and our clients. 

Below are some resources compiled by our Chapter Board, Social Justice and Anti-Racism Committee, and staff. If you know of other useful tools, organizations, community events, or resources, please email klewis.naswmi@socialworkers.org .  

Coping Skills and Mindfulness Exercises to Practice

Resources for Crisis Response

Psychological First Aid

Relief/Support Organizations

Doctors without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) describes itself as an "independent and impartial humanitarian organization" that delivers emergency medical care in places that need it. It does not currently run medical programs in Israel — citing its strong emergency and health systems — but says it has offered support to Israeli hospitals treating a high number of casualties. It does provide medical care in Gaza and is focused on meeting immediate emergency needs there, including donating medical supplies .

The International Committee of the Red Cross is a "neutral, independent humanitarian organization" that responds to help people harmed by armed conflict and disasters in conflict zones. The group says it immediately offered help to both sides . It's donated medical supplies to Gaza and is working with authorities to help identify missing people. It's working with Israel's Magen David Adom and the Palestine Red Crescent Society to help people who are wounded, sick and in need.

The International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW) is the global body for the social work profession. The Federation and its national members strive for social justice, human rights and inclusive, sustainable social development through the promotion of social work best practice and engagement in international cooperation.

Community-Based Resources

ACCESS (Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services) is the largest Arab American community nonprofit in the United States. With 10 locations and more than 120 programs serving metro Detroit, ACCESS offers a wide range of social, economic, health and educational services to a diverse population.

American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) is a civil rights organization committed to defending the rights of people of Arab descent and promoting their rich cultural heritage. “We know from many of you that our community is hurting, that we feel terrorized in the present, and that we are scared for the future. Many of us are experiencing significant pain and anguish and we want to offer support the best way we can. In the meantime, if you are in need of ADC's assistance whether on campus, in the workplace and/or would like to report a hate crime, please contact legal@adc.org .” 

Arab American National Museum (Dearborn, MI) - The Arab American National Museum (AANM) is the first and only museum of its kind in the United States devoted to recording the Arab American experience. It serves as a touchstone that connects communities to Arab American culture and experiences. Since opening in 2005, AANM’s goal has been to document, preserve and present the history, culture and contributions of Arab Americans. Our exhibitions cover the Arab world and the history of Arab Americans from the first immigrants who arrived in the late 19th century to today. We offer safe spaces for open dialogue and community gatherings and provide educational opportunities for children and students of all ages to expand their knowledge and appreciation of Arab American history and culture.

EMDR HAP which is part of the Trauma Recovery EMDR Humanitarian Assistance Program. The national organization is emdrhap.com.

Local, there is MI-Tri County which is served by Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb Counties but also outside these areas. They provide pro-bono EMDR work (10 sessions) for first respondents, frontline medical workers, and victims of mass crisis events.  The email contact is MItricountyTRN@gmail.com

Jewish Family Services - Since 1928, Jewish Family Service has served Detroit's Jewish community. Today, we're proud to help carry that important work forward by serving all who come through our doors. Through the efforts of our highly skilled and dedicated staff, the hundreds of volunteers who help out in countless ways, and the leadership of our Board of Directors, JFS is able to provide compassionate, personalized services that help thousands in our community each year. Our services are uniquely tailored to the specific needs of each individual or family, and center around three core areas: services for older adults, mental health and wellness, and safety net services.

Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit works in partnership with its network of agencies to reach and serve the needs of people at every age and stage of life in the Jewish community of Metropolitan Detroit, in Israel and around the world. Locally, Federation supports a family of 17 social service agencies, community organizations and day schools across Metro Detroit. Working with its national and global partners, Federation positively impacts the lives of thousands of Jews throughout Israel, in the Former Soviet Union and in 60 countries around the world. The Federation has information and listings daily of updates and resources inclusive of events, volunteer opportunities and charitable giving.

Islamic Networks Group (ING) is a peace-building organization providing face-to-face education and engagement opportunities that foster understanding of Muslims and other misunderstood groups to promote harmony among all people.

https://ing.org/reaffirming-our-dedication-to-combatting-antisemitism-and-islamophobia/

The Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR) has one of the most important roles in state government – to investigate alleged discrimination and to secure the equal protection of civil rights.