To ensure that campus is handling the Feb. 13 commemoration in the most sensitive and trauma-informed way as possible, it is recommended that groups, units, or offices not hold smaller commemoration events.  

If your unit is considering an independent commemoration event, here is some trauma-informed guidance to consider: 

• Be aware of the university-wide events and avoid overlapping efforts, if possible. Additional timing, location, and details will be announced soon. 
• Ensure invitees are well prepared for exactly what will occur at your event, so that the details and their participation is not met with surprise.
• Attendance should always be optional, and participants should be able to exit easily at any time. 
• Commemorative events should not be a source of re-traumatization. To this end, we do not recommend that individuals publicly share personal stories or that groups engage in expression of memories and experiences from Feb 13. 
  • Providing narratives or listening to others’ stories can be quite activating for those who have experienced trauma.
  • Without the support and direction of mental health professionals, this type of exercise can create additional distress, often unexpectedly.
• Share links to supportive resources with planners and attendees however possible. Some helpful resources may include:
  • Counseling & Psychiatric Services
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Office for Resource and Support Coordination
• Engage with IPF Events  for assistance in planning events which will involve entities outside your department or immediate responsibility and/or take place in university-managed spaces. IPF Events can help you identify, coordinate, and schedule logistical support needs, such as Parking, Security, space-use approval, waste management, restroom facilities, electrical service, and seating. Contact them as early as possible.
• MSU counseling staff may not be readily available for individual unit events. Plan accordingly.
• Notify ORSC about your planned commemoration efforts, so that publicly announced offerings can be shared via our website and any important coordination can occur. Email orsc@msu.edu with planned dates, times, locations, and event details.