Jury selection for the trial of former Minneapolis Police Officer Derek Chauvin started on March 8. The City of Roseville recognizes that the trial will undoubtedly have an impact on all of us, particularly our communities of color.
As the trial unfolds, it is essential that the city allow space for mourning, grief, and protest. Last summer, the city was heartened to observe that the vast majority of residents who expressed their right to free speech and assembly did so peacefully. It is essential that residents once again come together and find ways to support one another.
The City of Roseville is resolutely committed to its community aspirations and core values of inclusion and respect. It also remains committed to protecting the health and safety of residents. Unlawful behavior that disrupts the peaceful order and safety of the community will not be tolerated. Actions such as these inhibit safe platforms for people to peacefully be heard and put the safety of both community members and emergency services personnel at risk.
We understand that this is a time of heightened emotion, stress and anxiety. The city encourages residents to reach out to family members, friends, members of the faith community or other community members in their support network. Some residents may feel overwhelmed during this time and may benefit from the care of professionals trained in stress and trauma management. The city would like residents to know that the following resources are available:
- Northeast Youth and Family Services – Provides mental health counseling and community-based support services for youth, adults and families in need of help
- Volunteers of America – Provides outpatient trauma recovery and resilience referrals and services
- Walk In Counseling Center – Provides free counseling by phone or video, no appointment required. Information available in English and Spanish
- United Way 211 – Visit the website or call “2-1-1” for a connection to expert care
- For Children in crisis – Ramsey County Crisis Hotline at 651-266-7878
- For Adults in crisis – Ramsey County Crisis Hotline at 651-266-7900
- Empower Survivors – Provides a list of agencies that offer trauma-informed care
- Bamboo Professionals – Provides Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM)
- NorthPoint Clinic – Provides virtual trauma groups
- COVID Cares free telephone support service available for all Minnesota residents 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. 7 days a week. The number is 833-HERE4MN (833-437-3466). The line is staffed by volunteer licensed mental health and substance use disorder workers. They are available for 20 minute support calls to listen, share resources and tools, and talk. Volunteers come from the Minnesota Psychiatric Society, Minnesota Psychological Association, Minnesota Black Psychologists, and Mental Health Minnesota.
The city will continue to provide relevant information to the community regarding the trial and any impacts on the City of Roseville.