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Welcome to our June newsletter!
As we embrace the beginning of summer, we also take this opportunity to celebrate Pride Month, learn how public schools will continue to protect students' privacy and safety, and reflect and honor Juneteenth.
This month, we shine a light on the young people at Green Hill School who won a nationwide anti-fentanyl contest, provide classes for parents and loved ones to understand and support their family members if they are experiencing a substance use challenge, and offer education and resources to help children and adolescents cope with traumatic events, and more.
Join us as we honor our shared experiences and continue to build a brighter future for all.
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Health Care Authority (HCA) recognizes and celebrates the diversity and resilience of the 2SLGBTQIA+ (Two-spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual and additional sexual orientations and gender identities) community. During Pride Month, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting the health and well-being of the 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals and through inclusive and equitable healthcare services.
Pride Month is a time to honor the contributions and achievements of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community while acknowledging the ongoing challenges and disparities faced by many. To better serve the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, we have provided resources and programs designed to address unique health needs and promote behavioral health equity.
Behavioral Health Equity: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Intersex (LBGTQI+)
- Training and resources for providers to deliver culturally competent and affirming care.
Moving Beyond Change Efforts: Evidence and Action to Support and Affirm LGBTQI+ Youth
- The "Moving Beyond Change Efforts" program offers evidence-based approaches to support the mental health and well-being of 2SLGBTQIA+ youth.
- The program includes: Educational resources, training and workshops, and community support
Transgender+ communities and mental health
- Being 2SLGBTQIA+ isn’t a mental illness, but many face mental health challenges due to stigma, discrimination, and denial of their rights. Despite this, most LGBTQ+ people are resilient and can thrive with support from families, communities, and peers.
2024 Guide to Being an Ally to Transgender and Nonbinary youth
- The Guide to Being an Ally to Transgender and Nonbinary Young People offers an introduction to gender identity and expression, providing best practices to support them. By educating yourself, you can better support the trans and nonbinary individuals in your life and help create a safer, kinder, and more accepting world.
We invite you to explore the resources and join us in our commitment to health equity and inclusion. Together, we can create a healthier and more supportive environment for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community
In early March, Washington state passed Initiative 2081 (I-2081), establishing the Parents’ Bill of Rights. While it overlaps with existing laws, it conflicts with student privacy rights, particularly around school records. The initiative expands the definition of “records” to include medical and mental health files, protected by federal laws like FERPA and HIPAA, which require student consent for disclosure.
State Superintendent Chris Reykdal emphasized that the initiative does not reduce student privacy rights protected by federal law. He highlighted the importance of maintaining safe and supportive environments for students, especially LGBTQ+ youth, without the risk of being outed by their school.
On May 23, several organizations filed a lawsuit to prevent the initiative from taking effect, citing conflicts with federal and state laws. The King County Superior Court denied a motion for a temporary restraining order, allowing the initiative to take effect on June 6. A preliminary injunction hearing is set for June 21.
The Legislature directed the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) to develop technical guidance for schools. Until further clarity is provided, school districts are advised to adhere to federal privacy laws.
For more information
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Six young people at Green Hill School won a nationwide anti-fentanyl contest hosted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
Their music video "Dark Roads" raises awareness about drug overdose prevention, showcasing the impact of fentanyl and the resilience of youth overcoming addiction.
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Washington State Community Connectors (WSCC) and partners have developed a training to educate families about substance use disorder (SUD) and related treatment options across the state.
This training is for parents, family members, and caregivers who are interested in learning how to support their loved ones with SUD. Participants will learn about up-to-date information around SUD, addiction and its effects on the adolescent brain, skills for families navigating their relationship with someone with SUD, and systems navigation.
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The Coach Approach to Adaptive Leadership workshop is a highly interactive 16-hour workshop designed to enhance your critical thinking skills, empower you to better support others, improve the clarity and effectiveness of your communication, and equip you to build stronger collaborations.
Dates and times
- August: 6, 2024
- August 8, 2024
- August 13, 2024
- August 15, 2024
All trainings are 4 days, 4 hours each day 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
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Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19th, is a significant holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. In Washington State, various activities and events are organized to engage youth and celebrate this important day. Here are some events and activities you might find interesting:
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Seattle Juneteenth Celebrations:
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Juneteenth Scavenger Hunt: Tacoma Public Libraries host a fun scavenger hunt from June 1-18 across multiple branches, recommended for K-5 and grades 6-8. Address: Various locations.
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Juneteenth: Celebration of Freedom at Renton Library: Includes a community resource fair, Juneteenth-themed storytelling, and other workshops. Free event on June 15 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Address: Renton Library, 100 Mill Ave S, Renton, WA 98057.
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Northwest African American Museum Skate Party: NAAM’s Annual Juneteenth Skate Party at Judkins Park features free skate rentals, music, food, and more. Free event on June 15 from 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. Address: Judkins Park and Playfield, 2150 S Norman St., Seattle, WA 98144.
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Tacoma Juneteenth Freedom Fair:
- This event includes a variety of activities for youth, such as educational workshops, live music, dance performances, and arts and crafts. It aims to provide a fun and educational environment for young people to learn about the history and significance of Juneteenth.
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Spokane Juneteenth Celebration:
- Organized by the Carl Maxey Center, this celebration includes family-friendly activities, educational sessions, live entertainment, and community resources. Youth can participate in art projects, games, and historical reenactments.
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Bellevue Juneteenth Event:
- The Bellevue Downtown Park hosts a Juneteenth celebration with activities for all ages. Youth can enjoy performances, interactive exhibits, and educational activities that highlight African American culture and history.
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Olympia Juneteenth Celebration:
- The event features a variety of activities for youth, including storytelling, music, dance, and educational workshops. It focuses on celebrating African American culture and history while providing a fun and engaging environment for young participants.
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Bellingham Juneteenth:
- Hosted by the Bellingham Unity Committee, this celebration includes youth-friendly activities such as arts and crafts, games, music, and educational sessions. The event aims to foster a sense of community and educate young people about the importance of Juneteenth.
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Every year, children and adolescents experience disasters and other traumatic events. Family, friends, and trusted adults play an essential role in helping youth cope with these experiences.
To assist you in this important role, we encourage you to share the National Institute of Mental Health Helping Children and Adolescents Cope with Traumatic Events fact sheet, social media message and graphics with your networks.
Additionally, parenting and caregiving can be challenging, and everyone deserves a helping hand. The Center of Parent Excellence (COPE) project is here to provide the support, resources, and community you might need. COPE is dedicated to empowering and assisting parents and caregivers.
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This one goes out to all the heroes - the kids and the grownups who are doing extraordinary things to make the world more awesome. Who is your hero?
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