‘A Conversation About ‘Intergenerational Trauma’’ is scheduled for Aug. 31 at 1 p.m. via Zoom

A panel of experts will discuss trauma that can harm generations of people this month at the University of Colorado Boulder.

The College of Arts and Sciences event, titled “A Conversation About ‘Intergenerational Trauma,’” is scheduled for Aug. 31 at 1 p.m. via Zoom. Attendance is free, but registration is required at this link.

Intergenerational or transgenerational trauma is trauma that has been passed down from survivors to their descendants.

People who have experienced intergenerational trauma may experience the same or similar psychological and emotional effects as previous generations that experienced the trauma firsthand.

Because stress responses are linked to physical health issues, intergenerational trauma can also lead to medical issues like heart disease or stroke. While anyone can experience intergenerational trauma, it is most notably seen among people of historically marginalized groups.

The panelists are:

• Athena Hubbard, clinical psychologist, U.S. Air Force
• Stanley Ly, LPC, CU Boulder director of Faculty and Staff Assistance Program
• Donna Mejia, CU Boulder faculty fellow, Renée Crown Wellness Institute; associate professor of theatre and dance; inaugural chancellor’s health and wellness scholar in residence
• Benjamin Ototivo, CU Boulder staff psychologist and multiculturalist

The panel discussion will be moderated by Erin Cunningham, director of employee wellness and engagement in the College of Arts and Sciences; and Marysia Lopez, program manager in the Office for Justice, Equity Diversity and Inclusion.

The panel discussion is presented by the Office for Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. It is co-presented by the college’s wellness initiative, called Be Well.

For more information or to request accommodations, contact Patricia Gonzalez, assistant dean for justice, equity, diversity & inclusion.