WELCOME AND INTRODUCTION
This issue highlights OEMA’s observance of National Hispanic Heritage Month and
activities at the APA Annual Convention in Honolulu
This September, OEMA joins Americans across the country as we observe the 30-day celebration of
National Hispanic Heritage Month, starting on September 15th and ending on October 15th. September
15th is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for five Latin American countries, Costa
Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua; and the independence days of Mexico and
Chile (September 16th and 18th respectively ) follow close behind. As we celebrate and honor the culture
and heritage of Hispanic/Latino communities, we also want to raise awareness concerning some of the
challenges that these communities frequently face. This month, our focus on the deleterious influence of
stress continues. Through our Ethnicity and Health in American Series (EHAS), OEMA is sponsoring a
community workshop to highlight the chronic condition of stress among Latina/o populations. The
workshop entitled All in The Familia: The Shared Impact of Immigration and Acculturative Stress is
hosted in partnership with the DC’s Mayor’s Office on Latino Affairs and faculty members from nearby
institutions. Detailed updates of additional APA and OEMA activities, announcements and calls are
provided in the pages to follow.
In fact, this entire issue is designed to serve as a digest of some APA sessions and activities that were
particularly relevant to psychologists and communities of color, which took place during APA's 121st
Annual Convention, in Honolulu. We begin with a detailed account of the Committee on Ethnic
Minority Affairs’ (CEMA) 21st Annual Invitational Breakfast written by APA PI-GRO staff, Stefanie
Reeves, MA. In this account, Reeves describes the eloquent keynote address on health disparities and
the impact of health reform on Native Hawaiian populations given by former United States Sen. Daniel
Akaka, D-Hawai’i, and tells of the APA Presidential citation presented by Josephine D. Johnson, PhD,
of the APA Board of Directors to Sen. Akaka during the breakfast. This account is followed by a recap
of the educational luau hosted by Div. 35, 45 and 17, written by Wendy Peters, PhD, president of Div.
35, Section 6, and an article detailing a convention session on the cultural appropriateness of APA’s
Ethics Code, written by Gayle Skawennio Morse, PhD, Society of Indian Psychologists (SIP) Delegate
to APA Council of Representatives and Art Blume, PhD, SIP president-elect. We also include a brief
update of the most recent meeting held at the convention from the Ethnic Minority Interest (EMI)
Caucus of APA’s Council of Representatives by EMI Caucus Chair Helen A. Neville, PhD. We close
our summary of convention activities by highlighting the various sessions that were held to discuss the
Trayvon Martin verdict. Sessions were held by Div. 45 and 51, with articles written by Luis A. Vazquez,
PhD, president, APA Div. 45 and Christopher T. H. Liang, PhD, president, APA Div. 51. Blog posts on
the case are also included following these articles.
I want to extend a sincere thanks to all of the contributors to this issue, including the OEMA staff that
has had to adjust to a much more frequent publication schedule. I also greatly appreciate the work of my
colleagues who provide high quality contributions on a voluntary basis, despite extremely busy
schedules. Please know that your commitment and support of our office is never overlooked or
minimized.
I want to close with a very brief reflection on this year’s convention experience. Those of us who were
able to make it to the convention were enlightened by the knowledge of our colleagues during the day
and inspired by the beauty and culture of Hawai’i in the afternoon/evening. For those of you who were
unable to join us in Hawai’i this year, I hope that a small amount of the wonder and enjoyment we
experienced comes through in the pages that follow. I find fellowship with like-minded colleagues
extremely invigorating, and I always leave the convention energized to serve as an advocate and
champion of issues particularly salient for psychologists and communities of color. I know many of you
feel the same way, so I look forward to seeing you next year in Washington, DC.
Tiffany G. Townsend, PhD.
Senior Director of OEMA
Former Sen. Daniel Akaka gives keynote address at CEMA’s invitational
breakfast at the APA convention
The theme of the event was “Health Disparities and the Impact of Health Reform on
Native Hawaiian Populations.”
By Stefanie Reeves, MA
The APA Committee on Ethnic Minority Affairs (CEMA) invitational breakfast at the APA convention
highlights issues of importance to psychologists of color and ethnic minority communities. This year’s
theme was "Health Disparities and the Impact of Health Reform on Native Hawaiian Populations." With
Honolulu as the host city of the APA convention, it was only fitting to use this venue to discuss the
needs of this important population.
The event began with remarks from CEMA’s Chair-Elect Muninder Ahluwalia, PhD, who described the
different ways APA is addressing health disparities in general, and for CEMA, ethnic/racial health
disparities in particular. Her remarks were followed by Stefanie Reeves with the Public Interest
Government Relations Office (PI-GRO) who gave a brief legislative update. Topics included an update
on funding for the Minority Fellowship Program, immigration reform and reintroduction of legislation to
address ethnic and racial health disparities in the 113th Congress.
This year’s keynote speaker for the CEMA breakfast was former United States Sen. Daniel Kahikina
Akaka, D-Hawai’i, who represented the Aloha State for over 35 years in the halls of congress. Senator
Akaka, who retired this past January, focused his remarks on his extensive and distinguished work in the
U.S. House of Representatives (1977-1990) and later the U.S. Senate (1990–2013) to address the needs
of underserved populations. Notable among his many achievements, Senator Akaka, along with the late
Senator Daniel Inouye, D-Hawai’i, sponsored a Health Equity and Accountability Act of 2012 (S. 2472)
to address ethnic minority health disparities including provisions focused on the needs of the Native
Hawaiian populations such as directing additional resources towards chronic disease management and
access to mental health services. Akaka stated his hope that the Senate, in his absence, will continue his
work of addressing health disparities issues facing many underserved communities in the United States.
Following the Senator’s remarks, Josephine D. Johnson, PhD, of the APA Board of Directors presented
him with a Presidential citation in recognition of his work on mental health and health disparities
throughout his congressional career.
“This is quite an honor to receive an award like this, and I’ll cherish it,” said Akaka. “I look back and
I’m so happy and I thank god for helping me and giving me the opportunity I had to help others. And
that’s very fulfilling. Thank you for being another fulfillment in my life.”
Retirement hasn’t slowed down Sen. Akaka, as he approaches his 90th birthday; he remains active in his
home state with speaking engagements and time with family and friends.
Legislative update
Updates on the Minority Fellowship Program, the Health Equity and Accountability
Act and other issues related to ethnic minority psychology.
By APA's Public Interest Directorate Government Relations Office
Minority Fellowship Program — The president’s FY2014 budget calls for a $4 million increase to the
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMSHA) Minority Fellowship
Program. The Senate Appropriations Labor, Health and Human Services subcommittee has approved an
increase of $3 million. We are awaiting action from the full Senate and House on funding for MFP.
Health Equity and Accountability Act — The Congressional Tri-Caucus which consists of the
Congressional Black Caucus, Congressional Hispanic Caucus and the Congressional Asian Pacific
Caucus are working on the reintroduction of the Health Equity and Accountability Act during the 113th
Congress. Introduction of the bill which addresses racial ethnic minority health disparities is slated for
the fall of 2013.
Immigration — The Senate passed an immigration reform bill that includes an important provision to
APA. Authored by Senator Al Franken, the provision requires the Immigration and Customs
Enforcement (ICE) agency to consider the best interests of children in detention, release and transfer
decisions affecting their parents, as well as stipulations that require that immigrant parents must receive
free, confidential calls to arrange for their children's care while in ICE custody. We are awaiting action
in the House of Representatives.
Racial Profiling — Sen. Ben Cardin, Md. and Rep. John Conyers, Mich., have introduced the End
Racial Profiling Act of 2013. The bill seeks to work with federal, state and local law enforcement
officials to minimize incidents of racial profiling.
A testament to resiliency and rainbows
Div. 35, 45 and 17 host an educational enrichment event celebrating Hawaiian
culture at the APA convention
By Wendy M. K. Peters, PhD
Since the days when foreigners first arrived on her beautiful shores, Hawai’i has been a multicultural
community and home to many different ethnic populations. For the once vigorous and physically robust
Native (Indigenous) Hawaiians, however, the arrival of foreigners marked a dramatic shift in their well-
being, economic prosperity and social status as sovereign citizens. Thankfully, changing times have
finally begun to reveal the latent strengths inherent in Hawaiian culture and values, and those who are
advocates of the Native community have taken up the task of healing the Hawaiian people by helping to
revitalize their homelands and working to re-traditionalize their culture. These important endeavors,
however, are all too often eclipsed by media stereotypes, tourism propaganda or simple misinformation.
Aiming to highlight authentic Hawaiian culture from a strengths based perspective, with an intent to
inform and celebrate all that is admirable about it, Wendy Peters, PhD, who is Native Hawaiian and the
president of Section 6: Indigenous Women (Div. 35), led a small, dedicated committee of volunteers
from Div. 35, 45 and 17 to accomplish just that by hosting an educational enrichment event celebrating
the Hawaiian culture. Members of the committee were Susana Ming-Lowe, PhD (Div. 35, Sec. 5), Julii
Green, PhD (Div. 35, Sec. 1), Vanessa Li (Div. 45, Adelphi University), Div. 17 Leadership
Development Institute Fellows Phillip Keck (Ball State University) and Anita Mihecoby (AI Numunu
Comanche, New Mexico State University) and Monique Macalinao (event planner).
Overcoming innumerable challenges, with team members spanning the country and working across an
ocean with no capital to speak of, the plans eventually fell into place and 250 tickets were sold after only
two weeks of promotion. To the team’s surprise, they were subsequently besieged with email requests to
make more tickets available. Despite the monetary and logistical considerations that weighed heavily
upon them to accomplish that, the Hawaiian spirit of resilience prevailed and the end result was that over
500 guests were able to attend the festivities.
L to R: Photo 1:(L to R) M. Duarte, A. Austin, B. Kaapeha-Tanner, K Crabbe; Photo 2: Halau o ke 'A'ali'i Ku
Makani performing hula kahiko (ancient style hula); Photo 3: A view of Kualoa Ranch from the Ranch House patio -
a sacred place overlooking the ocean.
The challenges, however, did not stop once the tickets were sold out. Just days before the APA
convention, the threat of a hurricane wreaked havoc with travel schedules or worse, cancelled them
entirely and the volunteer helpers for the luau were no exception. Making matters even more hectic, a
traffic accident caused the venue to be without power on the day of the event. Nonetheless, even in the
unusually oppressive heat of the stormy weather front, everyone involved pulled together to stage this
unprecedented APA event.
In addition to a number of Peters’ own family members, the student volunteers who were actually able
to get to Hawai’i, along with a few others who pitched in at the last minute, saved the day by helping
with all the tasks necessary to host 10 busloads of attendees. Many thanks go out to Laura Straughn,
PhD (Georgia State University), Melissa Wheeler, Monica Slinky, Royleen Ross (University of North
Dakota), Kayi Hui, Minji Yang (University of Maryland), Holis Tsoi, Joe Nee (CSPP, Alliant
International University, Los Angeles), Wells Ling (St. Louis University), Anne Scott (Julii Green’s
mom) and Arielle Smith. The preceding list of helpers is by no means exhaustive, as many others also
rolled up their sleeves to lend a hand wherever one was needed. Likewise, thanks are owed to a number
of organizational sponsors whose generosity made the event possible: Div. 35 Society for the
Psychology of Women, the Society of Indian Psychologists, Women’s Caucus of Council, Argosy
University Hawaii, Ball State University, Ethnic Minority Issues Caucus of Council, Div. 17 Society of
Counseling Psychology, Div. 52 International Psychology, and the Hawaii Psychological Association.
After expenses, the sponsorship and other proceeds raised were donated to benefit worthy Native
Hawaiian serving community organizations that included Halau Ku Mana Charter School, I Ola Lāhui
Rural Hawai'i Behavioral Health, and Kako'o O'iwi (a community participatory project for sustainable
culture).
Featuring eminent Native Hawaiians who cordially spoke about their specific endeavors, the event was
conducted according to traditional Hawaiian protocols and values. It was an evening packed with
culturally enriching education and art forms. First to address the group was Mahina Paishon Duarte, the
principal of Halau Ku Mana, a charter school focused on retraditionalization with a curriculum steeped
in Hawaiian culture and courses such as aquaculture, sustainable agriculture and ocean voyaging.
Bonnie Kahape'a-Tanner, also affiliated with Halau Ku Mana, is a teacher of Polynesian canoeing and
celestial navigation. Mentoring the Native youth, her work is helping to re-affirm their connection to the
land and ocean, as well as instilling in them a sense of caring for Hawaiian traditions. Aukahi Austin,
PhD, executive director of I Ola Lāhui Rural Hawai'i Behavioral Health and APA member, was also
present to impart her knowledge. Austin’s organization provides culturally-minded, evidence-based
behavioral health care that is responsive to the needs of medically underserved and predominantly
Native Hawaiian rural communities. Last to address the attendees was the keynote speaker and CEO for
the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Kamana'opono Crabbe, PhD. Also a member of APA, Crabbe shared
some of his experience with traditional healing practices that are being incorporated to help Native men.
After the presentations, a traditional luau dinner buffet was served and guests were entertained by the
2013 Na Hoku Hanohano (Rising Stars) award winning band, Na Hoa. Under the direction of Kumu
Hula Manu Boyd, and a fitting conclusion to a wonderful day’s celebration of culture, Halau o ke 'A'ali'i
Ku Makani at last took center stage dancing the hula under the moonlit Hawaiian night (because the
spotlight was broken too).
Yes folks, it was a challenging day that exacted patience, understanding and resiliency from all
concerned, but in the end everyone went home feeling it all was worth it. On that day, a Hawaiian
rainbow did indeed shine through the stormy weather showcasing Hawaii’s legacy in the wisdom of her
progeny. Best of all, it was those who came to learn, share and enjoy the event that were the most
beautiful rainbow of diversity to be seen at this year’s APA convention. With attendees representing
almost every APA organization and coming from all corners of the globe, it was a multi-cultural
gathering exemplary of diversity itself. The evening was undoubtedly a testament best described by the
Hawaii state motto: "Ua Mau ke Ea o ka Aina i Ka Pono," the life of the land is perpetuated in
righteousness.
Does the APA Ethics Code work for us?
Members of ethnic minority psychological associations examine the APA Ethics
Code’s relevance to people of color
By Gayle Skawennio Morse, PhD and Art Blume, PhD
The room was bursting with the energy of people from all parts of Turtle Island. For a moment, we
could hear the drumbeats from all corners of the earth. In an instant, a new community was born,
perhaps, appropriately, on the island of Oahu, a place of beauty and a place where indigenous people
have been challenged by colonialism and its consequences. On Aug. 3, 2013, at the national convention
of the American Psychological Association (APA), representatives from the Association of Black
Psychologists (ABPsi), the Society of Indian Psychologists (SIP), the Asian American Psychological
Association (AAPA), the National Latino/a Psychological Association (NLPA) held a panel discussion
concerning the current APA Code of Ethics (2010) and its relevance for ethnic minority people. This
work was a continuation of the work these four groups have started in collaboration as the Ethnic
Minority Psychological Associations (EMPA). For the first time in June 2013, all four groups met at the
SIP convention to work on the APA ethics code (Garcia 2013a, 2013b).
During the convention panel, ABPsi’s representative began by sharing with the audience an overview of
their ethical guidelines developed independent of APA and updated in 2006. ABPsi made it clear that
their ethical guidelines were rooted in afrocentric values and reflected historical trauma and
psychological consequences of slavery and discrimination experienced by African-Americans. Thus,
their model of ethics is centered on healing through valuing collective community responsibility. NLPA
discussed their process as an organization in reflecting about the necessity of developing new ethical
guidelines that better reflected their struggles and shared cultural values. SIP discussed their 3 year
process of trying to address the APA ethics code’s failure to incorporate important core Native values
such as connection to mother earth, and the significance of relationships, spirituality and community.
AAPA supported and reaffirmed the need to have ethical guidelines that considered cultural values and
traditions while dealing with the effects of colonialism. Speakers in the audience, that also included
voices from other parts of the world unanimously agreed for an urgent need for processes similar to
those being carried out by the four ethnic minority psychological associations. They suggested that
psychological societies worldwide would benefit from revised guidelines that more closely reflect their
beliefs and values about community, spiritualism and relationships, as well as consider the effects of
historical trauma or colonialism, than the beliefs and values incorporated into the current APA code.
Meanwhile, as fate would have it, on the East Coast, the United Nations in New York City was
celebrating the International World’s Indigenous Peoples Week. They began the week with a panel
discussion titled “Indigenous Peoples Building Alliances: Honouring Treaties, Agreements and other
Constructive Arrangements”. The panelists included the deputy permanent representative of Panama to
the UN, The UN assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights and the Chief of the Onondaga Tribe
from Onondaga, New York. The audience included scientists, tribal leaders and members of indigenous
groups from around the world. The panelists discussed with the audience the need to consider the effects
of colonialism, connection to mother earth, as well as the meaning of community and relationships, the
very same themes shared in Oahu when considering the value of the APA code for all people.
A major challenge for Native people in accepting and using the APA's Code of Ethics is that it reflects
eurocentric values, such as self-focused individualism and personal autonomy, which were derived
without concern for Native values and principles. Thus, the current discussion about the utility of an
APA ethical model developed within a Western colonial model is long overdue and this discussion and
review appears to be part of a larger global zeitgeist focused on appreciating the power and wisdom
inherent in indigenous culture. Overall, emerging themes from these forums include the necessity of
community-centeredness as a principle for guiding the interpersonal behavior of psychologists, the
importance of appreciating and respecting the connectivity of all things in and through nature, and the
importance of spirituality (rather than religiosity) in human growth and identity. A viable code of ethics
for psychologists working with Native people will be inadequate unless it includes these core values. In
addition, Native psychologists will continue to feel excluded from the profession of psychology until
their concerns about culturally appropriate ethical conduct are acknowledged.
The principles discussed above are essential elements to ethical conduct on Turtle Island and are
currently inadequately represented in the APA code. Because of this, SIP will continue to work with
APA to change the code. In addition, the emerging and globally representative community interested in
incorporating new ethical values long silenced in APA agreed to carry on the work currently underway
with the four ethnic psychological associations.
References
American Psychological Association (2010). Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct.
Washington, D.C.: APA
Association of Black Psychologists (2006). Licensure Certification Proficiency Program Standards: The
ABPsi Ethical Standards.
García, M. (2013a, June). Let’s do ethics! Fleshing out the SIP formal commentary on the APA Ethics
Code. Paper presented at the Society of Indian Psychologists 26th Annual Convention, Logan,
Utah.
García, M. (2013b, June). How do you like me now? The SIP Formal Commentary on the APA Ethics
Code. Paper presented at the Society of Indian Psychologists 26th Annual Convention, Logan,
Utah.
Keeping diversity and social justice front and center
Moving toward increased diversity in APA’s governance structure
By Helen A. Neville, PhD
In these brief comments, I both summarize the activities of the APA Ethnic Minority Issues (EMI)
Caucus at the 2013 convention convened in Hawai’i and outline what many of us see as ways to further
promote diversity and inclusion in the work we do.
At the EMI caucus, we learned more about the development of the Alliance of National Psychological
Associations for Racial and Ethnic Equity (or “the Alliance”). This new and evolving entity is an
exciting opportunity for the APA to work as equal partners with the Asian American Psychological
Association, Association of Black Psychologists, National Latina/a Psychological Association, Society
of Indian Psychologists. The Alliance is committed to establishing cross-association projects to promote
social justice, racial equity and cultural diversity. The focus of the Alliance is on external projects and
thus differs from some of the excellent work APA is already involved that focuses more on internal
development (for example, the work of Council of National Psychology Associations for the
Advancement of Ethnic Minority Interests, also known as CNPAAEMI). We encourage people to be on
the lookout for additional information on the Alliance and opportunities to provide APA with feedback
on projects as they emerge.
The “main event” at the council meeting was the approval of recommendations put forth by the
association’s Good Governance Project. Essentially, the changes are designed to promote a more
efficient and proactive governance structure and center around six areas: enhancing the use of
technology, creating a new pipeline for leadership within the association, establishing a triage system of
governance, expanding the scope of council to help shape major policy issues, delegating the budget
responsibility primarily within the APA Board of Directors for a trial period and changing the APA
Board of Directors composition to be more representative of the APA membership.
Now, the real work of thinking through how these changes may be implemented begins. Most relevant
to the focus of the EMI Caucus is the need to ensure that there is racial and ethnic diversity
representation in the new governing structure and that the issues affecting psychologists of color and the
communities we serve are an integral part of the work of APA. During the council meeting, Martha
Banks — a Div. 35 council representative — proposed a governing structure model that would ensure
diversity on council or an assembly, including a representative from each division and state provincial
and territory association, delegates from members in broad areas of psychology (e.g., education, science,
public interest, practice, health), diversity representatives (e.g., ethnic minority psychological
associations, early career psychologists and APAGS). It seems important to support creative solutions
such as this as we move forward in thinking through a new governing body of the APA.
The EMI Caucus also agreed to partner with the Public Interest Committee and others to draft a
statement on the Trayvon Martin killing and the murder of young boys and men of color. A draft
statement is now circulating for feedback. In this statement, we rely on the research to take a stance
against policies and legislations that promote racial stereotyping and inequalities including Stand Your
Ground laws and stop and frisk policing. In the statement, we include suggestions for social justice
oriented psychologists and others to engage in action to challenge racial (and racial-gender) injustices.
Ideally, the statement will be published on relevant listservs, newsletters, and appropriate media outlets.
We welcome new officers to the EMI Caucus including Frances Boulon as chair, Walter Hillabrant as
secretary and Y. Evie Garcia as elections chair.
The James Jones Conversation Hour: The Trayvon Martin tragedy
Div. 45 reflects on Trayvon Martin case during APA convention.
By Luis A. Vazquez, PhD
It was evident that those who showed up to share their feelings and express their ideas had hopes that
one outcome of the hour long conversation would be to develop ideas and/or strategies that could be
shared with the APA leadership and/or the broader APA membership. Participants with different
perspectives from a multitude of communities came together to discuss and examine the issues of
systemic bias, discrimination and racism that were raised as a result of the Trayvon Martin tragedy. We
were interested in finding ways that psychology and/or psychologists might be able to contribute to the
violence prevention debate and prevent further violence against children and adults of color.
All of us took care to listen to each other with respect and empathy, as some of us shared how the
Trayvon Martin tragedy impacted our everyday lives, whether through expression of anger, frustration
and sadness, describing behaviors that might better protect children and adults of color, and letting each
other know that we all mattered to one another. This tragic event reminded us of an all too familiar
history of violence and the experiences of fear that children of color continue to face in a society that
perpetuates systemic bias, prejudices and racism. Yet, there was a strong sense that the responsibility for
change belonged to us all, regardless of color. The meeting was the beginning of us coming together in
the face of the tragic loss of another child of color.
Throughout the meeting, there were tears of frustration and sadness, expressions of fear for our children
and anger for such a de-humanizing experience of tragedy. When looking around the room, you could
feel a sense of hope. There was also a sense of faith that all of us in that room truly wanted to change the
world and make it a place without racism, bias and fear for children of color.
There seemed to be so much more that we wanted and needed to share, but time constraints did not
permit for a longer discussion. The sharing of our experiences and ideas led to approximately 6
initiatives that were submitted to various boards, committees and members, with the ultimate goal of
presenting these initiatives to the broader APA membership. I would like to share one of the 6 initiatives
that were shared with great compassion.
The participants recommended the development of a series of educational resources on how to socialize
children, adolescents, young adults and elders about perpetrators, survivors and victims of the systemic
bias and racism perpetrated through laws, such as the “Stand your ground Law.” It was often stated in
the group that this responsibility belongs to “all” of us in order for our society to change. An example
that was given was that of “The Talk.”
Several participants of color briefly shared how their parents had “The Talk” with them at a very young
age. “The Talk” included a discussion of caution and the survivor skills needed to cope in a racist
society and population that would judge you based on the color of your skin and the way you dress.
“The Talk” relayed the message that people were judged through biases based on pre-conceived notions
that have been passed on from generation to generation in attempts to define who people of color are in
society. Participants believed that “The Talk” should be educational and that a course should be
developed on how to present “The Talk” from different points of views (perpetrators and
survivor’s/victims) with all children, adolescents and elders. The participants felt strongly about this
recommendation due to the reality that we currently face, and have faced for many years. With “The
Talk” there may be testimonials, literature and a humanization of the reality of the experiences of
children, adolescents and adults of color in U.S. society.
I want to thank all of you that attended the James Jones Conversation Hour and had the courage to share
with each other. I felt honored and humbled that you all allowed me to serve as a facilitator among such
leaders that were present at the meeting. I believe that we shared some good ideas that need to be acted
upon. There were many of us willing to volunteer our time to such efforts.
Complicating the narrative on Trayvon Martin
In light of the Trayvon Martin case, Div. 51 discusses ways to confront beliefs,
values and attitudes that perpetuate racism
By Christopher T. H. Liang, PhD, Sam Wan, PhD, and Jennifer Primack, PhD
Members of the Racial and Ethnic Minority Special Interest Group of the APA Society for the
Psychological Study of Men and Masculinity (Div. 51) have met to discuss issues related to the murder
of Trayvon Martin during the past two APA conventions. During the Orlando convention, discussion
focused on the events and factors leading to the murder of Trayvon Martin. That discussion centered on
stereotypes and assumptions about the case. A focus on masculinity issues as well as in-depth analysis
was the focus of discussion during this past APA. Below, we summarize our thoughts from our
conversations at these meetings as well as the remarks of Christopher Liang during his Presidential
Address to the Division.
As a division, we believe it is important to focus on violence prevention, and to understand, as well as
influence, societal messages about the value of the lives of men. Because acts of violence, particularly
those cases that involve men of color, include many factors, we believe in the need to complicate the
narrative. We believe media reports simplify violence, particularly those that are race-based. One way
that the media often portrays the dialogue on racism is to dichotomize the narrative, e.g., black vs. white,
things are better vs. worse, or racist vs. not. However, this effort to characterize the issues in this manner
can lead to a neglect of a great deal of the more complex and nuanced aspects of the issues. Indeed, as a
division we call for a collective effort to reverse this influence and in fact, complicate the narrative in
order to tackle the more insidious and persistent beliefs, values and attitudes that perpetuate racism.
One way to complicate the narrative is to highlight the complexities of men in general. While men in
general may be stereotyped as aggressive and violent, we need to continue to study how acceptance of
masculine norms influences men’s use of violence. For instance, how and why did George Zimmerman
ignore directions from law enforcement to stop his pursuit of Trayvon Martin. Aside from individual
level factors, how did masculine scripts shape his attitudes and behaviors that night? How did
internalized masculine scripts and implicit assumptions of young Black men lead Zimmerman to his
decision to continue his pursuit?
Another way to complicate the narrative is to understand how the experiences of boys and men of color
with gender stereotypes are heightened by a history of racism that has resulted in deeply engrained
assumptions of them as hyper-aggressive, hyper-violent and threatening. We want to delve deeper into
the intersections of racism, social class and racial and gender socialization of boys of color. We feel the
strong need to understand how young boys of color growing up in the United States experience violence
and the degree to which they internalize and act upon messages they receive about being boys of color.
We are concerned about how these experiences shape their sense of personal safety, their beliefs about
masculinity and violence, and the value of their own lives. To that end, we believe it would be important
to understand how the subtle or overt messages involving men of color affect the beliefs and attitudes,
and ultimately, the lives of boys of color. We hope to develop a better understanding of these processes
to influence and shape more positive outcomes.
Another way to complicate the narrative is to focus attention on challenging the implicit assumptions of
boys and men of color held by law enforcement, educators, psychologists and judges. We believe that
implicit assumptions, which contribute to dehumanizing boys and men of color, puts ethnic minority
individuals at risk for disparities in education, psychological problems, as well as incarceration rates. As
such, we encourage the development of legal, mental health and educational policy, training programs,
and services that are sensitive to how race, masculinity, sexism, social class and other dimensions of
diversity intersect.
In closing, we will continue our efforts to complicate the narrative through dialogue within our division
and will engage others interested in collaborating in research to inform discussions on clinical and
educational practice, as well as mental health, legal and educational policy.
Race Always Matters
First post on Delaware — DiversityUS blog, and the importance of honest dialogues
about race.
By James M. Jones, PhD
“Race is intricately woven into the culture, the institutions and the psyche of America. Its presence has
been overt, intentional, self-aggrandizing and instrumental at times, or covert, subtle, unconscious at
other times. However, it is there, waiting for a drop of animus or fear to ignite its destructive potential.”
DiversityUS (http://sites.udel.edu/csd/)
Race Always Matters (http://sites.udel.edu/csd/2013/08/02/race-always-matters-2/)
About the Author: James M. Jones, PhD, is a professor of psychology and Black American studies at
University of Delaware and a director for the Center for the Study of Diversity.
New Blog Posts on Public Interest Blog Psychology Benefits Society
After the Acquittal: The Need for Honest Dialogue about Racial Prejudice and
Stereotyping
Gwendolyn Puryear Keita, PhD, (executive director, APA Public Interest Directorate) blogs about the
national dialogue (http://psychologybenefits.org/2013/09/12/how-to-talk-to-your-kids-about-racism-in-
a-post-trayvon-world/) )on the Trayvon Martin case: how psychologists and psychological research can
contribute to this discussion.
How talk to your Kids about Racism
Thema Bryant-Davis, PhD" a psychologist and associate professor at Pepperdine University blogs on…
a spotlight is now shining on the ongoing concern/dilemma of many parents, particularly African-
American parents, about how to prepare their children for the experience of being devalued and
potentially harmed as a result of racism. The research and clinical work of psychologists has much to
offer this conversation. This blog post explores strategies for parents of all races and ethnicities to talk to
their children about racism and discrimination."
Announcements
Upcoming conferences and meetings
Fifth Annual Behavioral Health Conference: The Rural & Greater Division of the Minnesota
Psychological Association and the APA Committee on Rural Health, Friday, October 11, 2013
The Rural & Greater Division of the Minnesota Psychological Association has partnered with the APA
Committee on Rural Health (among other strategic partners) to host the Fifth Annual Rural Behavioral
Health Conference on Oct., 11, 2013. This year’s theme is “Advances in Rural Practice.” Presentation
will include many such as: “Psychotherapy with Rural African Americans.” The entire day’s
programming also will be offered as a webcast to individuals, as well as group webcasts at specific
locations in Illinois, Minnesota and North Dakota. Full conference details and the link to conference
registration are provided below. If you have any questions specifically about the conference, please
direct them to Willie Garrett, EdD, conference co-chair, or fax/phone (651) 646-8594. If you have any
questions about the APA Committee on Rural Health, please feel free to contact Tammy Barnes at (202)
336-5987.
The Clinical Psychology of Ethnic Minorities: Integrating Research and Practice
October 25-26, 2013
Michigan State University Symposium on Multicultural Psychology
The Consortium for Multicultural Psychology Research (CMPR) at Michigan State University is very
happy to announce that the 2013 MSU Symposium on Multicultural Psychology will focus on "The
Clinical Psychology of Ethnic Minorities: Integrating Research and Practice." It is being organized by
Frederick Leong, PhD, Guillermo Bernal, PhD and NiCole Buchanan, PhD, and scheduled for Oct. 25-
26, 2013, at the MSU Union (Lake Huron Room).
Visit the Consortium for Multicultural Psychology Research to access current and previous MSU
Symposia on Multicultural Psychology. The goal of the 2013 MSU Symposium is to provide a review of
the current state of the field and to formulate research needs and identify directions for integrating
research and practice in the field of ethnic minority clinical psychology. Leading researchers in the field
have been invited as speakers (listed below).
The plan is to publish the invited presentations from the conference as a volume in the CMPR MSU
Symposium Book Series (five volumes) published by the APA. The first volume on Conducting
Multinational Organizational Research has been published and the second volume on Occupational
Health Disparities among Racial and Ethnic Minorities is in preparation. Registration for the 2013 MSU
Symposium can be found at our CMPR website. Please note that we have obtained support from the
Graduate School and all MSU graduate students attending will have their registration fees waived.
Questions regarding the Symposium may be directed to the CMPR Director: Frederick Leong.
Invited speakers:
Cheryl Boyce, PhD, National Institute of Health
Beth Boyd, PhD, University of South Dakota
Alfiee Breland-Noble, PhD, Georgetown University
NiCole Buchanan, PhD, Michigan State University
Guillermo Bernal, PhD, University of Puerto Rico
Glorisa Canino, PhD, University of Puerto Rico
Melanie Domenech-Rodriguez, PhD, Utah State University
Margarita Francia, PhD, University of Puerto Rico
Frederick Leong, PhD, Michigan State University
Steve Lopez, PhD, University of Southern California
Alfonso Martinez Taboas, PhD, University of Puerto Rico
Joseph Trimble, PhD, University of Western Washington
Nolan Zane, PhD, University of California at Davis
The Third Biennial APA Division 45 Research Conference — June 19-21, 2014, University of
Oregon, Ford Alumni Center
The third biennial Div. 45 Conference will be held June 19-21, 2014, at the University of Oregon. The
goals of the conference are: (1) the presentation of state-of-the-art research related to the psychological
aspects of individuals from all ethnic minority groups within the United States; (2) the professional
development of ethnic minority researchers (students and professionals) and (3) greater networking and
collaboration among researchers studying ethnic minority issues across various fields of psychology.
This is the only conference specifically devoted to research relevant to Div. 45.
The conference co-chairs are Gordon Nagayama Hall, PhD, and Robert Sellers, PhD. The conference
will feature outstanding plenary speakers and symposia, as well as preconference workshops for
professional development. Confirmed speakers for plenary sessions include:
Race, Ethnicity and Schooling (From the Cradle to College)
Margaret Beale Spencer , University of Chicago
Tiffany Yip , Fordham University
Charles Martinez , University of Oregon
Jin Li , Brown University
Sandra Graham , UCLA
Ethnic/Racial Identity
William Cross , University of Denver
Adriana Umaña-Taylor , Arizona State University
Moin Syed , University of Minnesota
Stephanie Fryberg , University of Arizona
Richard Lee , University of Minnesota
The call for proposals will be available in early 2014. Visit the conference website for more information.
A note about location
The University of Oregon is a mid-sized, tree-lined campus in Eugene, two hours south of Portland. Eugene is quite pleasant
in late June, with average temperatures in the mid-70s. The city is known for its outdoor activities, and is proximal to the
Oregon coast, the Cascade Mountains, wineries, and breweries. Eugene has a vibrant Saturday Market that sells farm fresh
produce, local foods and handcrafted goods. Six airlines service the Eugene Airport with direct flights from several major
hubs in the west.
2014 International Symposium on Minority Health and Health Disparities, Scheduled Dec. 1-3,
2013: Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in National Harbor, MD
Updated information will soon be available online. Please direct all inquiries to the Symposium
Secretariat via email or call (404) 559-6191.
The 2015 National Multicultural Conference and Summit: Psychology without Borders: Reflecting
Within, Reaching Out, Jan. 15-16, 2015, Atlanta | Marriott Marquis
NMCS 2015 welcomes educators, policymakers, researchers and clinicians to reflect on what we have
accomplished and consider where we need to go. in the spirit of Sankofa, we will look back to move
forward. The summit will provide a welcoming space to explore the question, relative to science,
service, training and policy, “what has the multicultural psychology movement not yet accomplished?”
programming, including keynotes and difficult dialogues, is designed to provide a safe space to explore
this question and seek answers. Join us in 2015 to reflect within and reach out, to remove the borders
that limit us and celebrate psychology without borders.
About the NMCS
The National Multicultural Conference and Summit convene scientists, practitioners, scholars and
students, in psychology and related fields to inform and inspire multicultural theory, research and
practice. Multiculturalism is envisioned as inclusive of experiences related to age, disability, ethnicity,
gender, gender identity and expression, indigenous heritage, national origin, race, religion, sexual
orientation, social class and socioeconomic status, and other social identities. The NMCS occurs every
other year and will occur again in 2015.
Host Organizations
APA Division 17: Society of Counseling Psychology
APA Division 35: Society for the Psychology of Women
APA Division 44: Society for the Psychological Study of LGBT Issues
APA Division 45: Society for the Psychological Study of Ethnic Minority Issues
Publications
Asian American Journal of Psychology, new blog on diversity, Chicana/Chicano mental health and
Healing of the Canoe curriculum trainings
The Asian American Psychological Association (AAPA) is pleased to announce that Bryan Kim, PhD,
(University of Hawaii, Hilo) has agreed to serve as editor-elect for AAJP. Kim will take over the helm
from inaugural editor Fred Leong, PhD, whose term will end in 2014.
In addition, according to Annie Hill, managing director of the APA-EPF who publishes AAJP, the
journal has earned an impact factor score of 1.750. This means that the journal is ranked first of 16
journals in the Ethnic Studies category and 36th of 126 journals in the multidisciplinary psychology
category.
New Blog on Diversity Launched: Center for the Study of Diversity, University of Delaware
James M. Jones Professor of Psychology and Black American Studies, Director, Center for the
Study of Diversity, University of Delaware
All are invited to visit and read the new blog for the Center for the Study of Diversity at the University
of Delaware — DiversityUS. The guiding premise for this blog is to promote better understanding of
diversity as a compelling interest, and a complex dynamic in higher education and in U.S. society.
Postings will discuss and analyze a wide variety of diversity topics from research and scholarly
perspectives. Although opinions will be expressed, it is not meant solely as an opinion site, but as a
research exploration of diversity. In addition, the blog will offer insights into the role of universities as
“anchor institutions” in their local and regional communities — where community includes the
university campus, the cities and towns in which they are located, and the collective individuals and
groups with whom they interact, support and depend. The first post offers social psychological analysis
of the role of Race in the Trayvon Martin case.
Guest bloggers will be invited to contribute from time to time to provide insight and analysis on a
variety of topics that are timely and reflect ongoing issues in higher education. Posts will appear
regularly on Fridays on a 3 to 4 week schedule. Although feedback and commentary will be welcomed,
it may not necessarily be made public.
Chicana and Chicano Mental Health: Alma, Mente y Corazón
The University of Arizona Press has recently published “Chicana and Chicano Mental Health: Alma,
Mente y Corazón” by Yvette G. Flores, PhD. "Chicana and Chicano Mental Health" offers a model to
understand and to address the mental health challenges and service disparities affecting Mexican
immigrants and Mexican-Americans/Chicanos. Flores, who has more than 30 years of experience as a
clinical psychologist, provides in-depth analysis of the major mental health challenges facing these
groups: depression, anxiety disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse and
intimate partner violence.
Healing of the Canoe Curriculum Trainings
Healing of the Canoe is a life skills curriculum for youth that uses culture to prevent substance abuse
and connect youth to community and culture. Come and learn how to adapt and implement this tribally
developed curriculum. For more information, visit the Healing of the Canoe website, send an email or
call Lisa Rey Thomas at (206) 473-9692.
Calls
American Psychological Foundation Seeks Applications to Support Mental Health Projects for the
Underserved
The American Psychological Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the American Psychological
Association (APA), is accepting applications from early-career psychologists working to address critical
psychological needs in underserved populations.
Through the Pearson Early Career program, the foundation will award a grant of $12,000 to a clinician
working on a scientifically-based project in the area of serious mental illness, serious emotional
disturbance, incarcerated or homeless individuals, children with serious emotional disturbance or adults
with serious mental illness.
To be eligible, psychologists must hold a doctorate from an accredited U.S. college/university and be no
more than 7 years postdoctoral. See the Pearson Early Career Grant webpage for eligibility and
application guidelines.
APA Congressional Fellowship & Executive Branch Science Fellowship Programs — Applications
Now Being Accepted
APA seeks applications for its Congressional Fellowship and Executive Branch Science Fellowship
programs. These opportunities allow a select number of psychologists to spend a year in Washington,
D.C., where they receive first-hand experience with federal policymaking and agency research and
funding. Congressional fellows work as special legislative aides in congressional member or committee
offices and engage in a diverse range of policymaking activities on vital issues. APA offers specialized
Congressional Fellowships for midcareer/senior professionals, experts in health and behavior issues, and
developmental and clinical psychologists with experience working with children. Executive Branch
Science Fellows gain crucial experience in science policy and research coordination and funding
working in a federal science agency. Both programs offer a year-long stipend and funds to support
relocation, travel and the purchase of health insurance. For more information, visit the program's website
or call the Public Interest Government Relations Office at (202) 336-5935 or the Science Government
Relations Office at (202) 336-5932. Applications must be completed by Jan. 3, 2014.
Fifth Annual Behavioral Health Conference: The Rural & Greater Division of the Minnesota
Psychological Association and the APA Committee on Rural Health, Friday, Oct. 11, 2013
The Rural & Greater Division of the Minnesota Psychological Association has partnered with the APA
Committee on Rural Health (among other strategic partners) to host the Fifth Annual Rural Behavioral
Health Conference on Oct., 11, 2013. This year’s theme is “Advances in Rural Practice.” Presentation
will include many such as: “Psychotherapy with Rural African Americans.” The entire day’s
programming also will be offered as a webcast to individuals, as well as group webcasts at specific
locations in Illinois, Minnesota and North Dakota. Full conference details and the link to conference
registration are provided below. If you have any questions specifically about the conference, please
direct them to Willie Garrett, EdD, conference co-chair, or fax/phone (651) 646-8594.
If you have any questions about the APA Committee on Rural Health, please feel free to contact Tammy
Barnes at (202) 336-5987.
The Clinical Psychology of Ethnic Minorities: Integrating Research and Practice
October 25-26, 2013
Michigan State University (MSU) Symposium on Multicultural Psychology
The Consortium for Multicultural Psychology Research (CMPR) at Michigan State University is very
happy to announce that the 2013 MSU Symposium on Multicultural Psychology will focus on "The
Clinical Psychology of Ethnic Minorities: Integrating Research and Practice." It is being organized by
Frederick Leong, PhD, Guillermo Bernal, PhD and NiCole Buchanan, PhD, and scheduled for Oct. 25-
26, 2013, at the MSU Union (Lake Huron Room).
Visit the Consortium for Multicultural Psychology Research to access current and previous MSU
Symposia on Multicultural Psychology.
The goal of the 2013 MSU Symposium is to provide a review of the current state of the field and to
formulate research needs and identify directions for integrating research and practice in the field of
ethnic minority clinical psychology. Leading researchers in the field have been invited as speakers
(listed below).
The plan is to publish the invited presentations from the conference as a volume in the CMPR MSU
Symposium Book Series (five volumes) published by the APA. The first volume on Conducting
Multinational Organizational Research has been published and the second volume on Occupational
Health Disparities among Racial and Ethnic Minorities is in preparation. Registration for the 2013 MSU
Symposium can be found at our CMPR website.
Please note that we have obtained support from the graduate school and all MSU graduate students
attending will have their registration fees waived. Questions regarding the symposium may be directed
to CMPR Director Frederick Leong.
Invited speakers:
Cheryl Boyce, PhD, National Institute of Health
Beth Boyd, PhD, University of South Dakota
Alfiee Breland-Noble, PhD, Georgetown University
NiCole Buchanan, PhD, Michigan State University
Guillermo Bernal, PhD, University of Puerto Rico
Glorisa Canino, PhD, University of Puerto Rico
Melanie Domenech-Rodriguez, PhD, Utah State University
Margarita Francia, PhD, University of Puerto Rico
Frederick Leong, PhD, Michigan State University
Steve Lopez, PhD, University of Southern California
Alfonso Martinez Taboas, PhD, University of Puerto Rico
Joseph Trimble, PhD, University of Western Washington
Nolan Zane, PhD, University of California at Davis
The Third Biennial APA Division 45 Research Conference — June 19-21, 2014, University of
Oregon, Ford Alumni Center
The third biennial Div. 45 Conference will be held June 19-21, 2014, at the University of Oregon. The
goals of the conference are: (1) the presentation of state-of-the-art research related to the psychological
aspects of individuals from all ethnic minority groups within the United States; (2) the professional
development of ethnic minority researchers (students and professionals) and (3) greater networking and
collaboration among researchers studying ethnic minority issues across various fields of psychology.
This is the only conference specifically devoted to research relevant to Div. 45. The conference co-
chairs are Gordon Nagayama Hall, PhD, and Robert Sellers, PhD. The conference will feature
outstanding plenary speakers and symposia, as well as preconference workshops for professional
development. Confirmed speakers for plenary sessions include:
Race, Ethnicity and Schooling (From the Cradle to College)
Margaret Beale Spencer, University of Chicago
Tiffany Yip, Fordham University
Charles Martinez, University of Oregon
Jin Li, Brown University
Sandra Graham, UCLA
Ethnic/Racial Identity
William Cross, University of Denver
Adriana Umaña-Taylor, Arizona State University
Moin Syed, University of Minnesota
Stephanie Fryberg, University of Arizona
Richard Lee, University of Minnesota
The call for proposals will be available in early 2014. Visit the conference website for more information.
The University of Oregon is a mid-sized, tree-lined campus in Eugene, two hours south of Portland.
Eugene is quite pleasant in late June, with average temperatures in the mid-70s. The city is known for its
outdoor activities, and is proximal to the Oregon coast, the Cascade Mountains, wineries and breweries.
Eugene has a vibrant Saturday Market that sells farm fresh produce, local foods and handcrafted goods.
Six airlines service the Eugene Airport with direct flights from several major hubs in the west.
Call for Pre-conference Workshop Proposals! 3rd Biennial APA Division 45 Research Conference,
University of Oregon, Eugene — June 19-21
Deadline: Oct. 31, 2013
Pre-conference workshop proposals are now being accepted for consideration the third biennial research
conference sponsored by the APA Society for the Psychological Study of Ethnic Minority Issues (Div.
45). The conference will convene June 19-21, 2014, at the University of Oregon in Eugene. The
deadline for the submission of proposals is 12 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 31, 2013. Workshop proposals
should be 2 or 4 hours in length and include the following information:
Workshop title (130 character limit).
Abstract (500-word limit) that includes relevance to ethnic minority issues.
Facilitators and their expertise relative to the workshop topics. One individual must be designated as
the lead facilitator.
Participant learning objectives (knowledge and skills that participants will gain). One objective per
hour is a general guideline.
Method of instruction that is interactive and incorporates best practices of learning.
Special consideration will be given to proposals that address the following topics:
Collaborating across disciplines and/or cultures.
Effective uses of technology in multicultural research, teaching and practice.
Early career development for psychologists of color.
Mid-career transitions for psychologists of color: Positioning for the next professional step.
When Findings are Unpredicted or Discrepant: Developing a Cohesive Article.
Converting Your Presentation into a Publication.
Visit the pre-conference workshop proposal website for more information.
For questions and/or additional information, please contact the Pre-Conference Workshops Committee
Chairperson Evie Garcia, PhD.
The Clara Mayo Grants: In Support of Masters’ Theses and Pre-Dissertation Research on Sexism,
Racism or Prejudice
The Clara Mayo Grant program was set up to support masters’ theses or pre-dissertation research on
aspects of sexism, racism or prejudice, with preference given to students enrolled in a terminal master’s
program. Studies of the application of theory or the design of interventions or treatments to address
these problems are welcome.
Eligibility
Individuals who are Society for the Psychological Society of Social Issues (SPSSI) members and who
have matriculated into graduate programs in psychology, applied social science and related disciplines.
A student who is applying for a Grants-In-Aids may not apply for the Clara Mayo award in the same
award year. Applicants may submit only one Mayo application per calendar year.
Awards and Criteria
Up to six grants will be awarded annually. The maximum amount of any grant is $1,000. Proposals that
include a college or university agreement to match the amount requested will be favored, but proposals
without matching funds will also be considered. Visit the SPSSI webpage to view previous Clara Mayo
Grant Winners.
How to Apply
Apply online now. Online submissions are the preferred method. Please limit the number and size of
files uploaded when applying online. At the time you submit your completed application, you must also
send an email to Brad Sickels at Central Office. As the subject of the email write "Fall Clara Mayo
Application" in the body of the email please list your full contact information. This document (DOC,
21.9KB) must also be completed and included as part of your online submission.
In addition to the requirements detailed on the application, applicants should include:
1. Faculty advisor’s recommendation, including certification that the proposal is for a master’s thesis or
for pre-dissertation research.
2. If available, an institutional letter of agreement to match the funds requested.
These additional materials must be uploaded with your full application or emailed to Brad Sickels for
the fall 2013 round.
Deadline: The annual deadline for the fall round is October 15th. Winners will be announced by Dec. 1,
2013. Late applications may be held until the next deadline.
Sponsored by: SPSSI’s Clara Mayo Memorial Fund made possible by bequests from the family and
friends of Professor Clara Mayo and by SPSSI member donations.
