Many of the advocates, social workers, activists, and healers who support underserved victims of violence are also survivors of violence and trauma. Oftentimes these frontline service providers' own self-care and continued healing process is secondary to their commitment for caring and healing others. In some cases, their personal healing is completely forgotten while their experiences of interpersonal trauma are exacerbated by their work with victims.

About the speaker: Richard Smith is a nationally recognized expert on trauma and healing for survivors of interpersonal and systemic violence. Richard has over two decades of experience developing and leading community-based programs to support the healing process of historically oppressed groups. His approach is grounded in Empowerment and Critical Race Theories. Richard is an assistant professor at LIU Brooklyn's Social Work Department. He has also guest lectured at numerous colleges and universities on issues such as systemic racism, mass incarceration, and trauma and healing. Richard has provided trainings and technical assistance for agencies throughout the country. Richard is currently the National Director of United for Healing Equity, Common Justice's national field building and movement building project committed to the advancement of healing equity for underserved survivors of violence. He holds a Master's Degree from the University at Albany in Africana Studies and is presently a doctoral student at SUNY Albany's School of Social Welfare. His research focus is male survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Richard is a Robert Wood Johnson Forward Promise Fellowship for Leaders.

Technology/Logistics: This event will be held on April 15, 2021, 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM ET. This event will be held via Zoom Meetings. Video participation is not required. The session will be recorded and distributed to those who register. The session will be conducted in spoken English. Language interpretation can be made available upon request.