Of Cowards and Heroes...and Housing Managers

This week's events in Boston remind us that though there are people out there who want to do harm, there are also those who go above and beyond.  We saw the worst and the best in humanity in one moment, on one city street.  Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of the Boston Marathon bombing and their families at this difficult time, as well as with the members of law enforcement who are still working to apprehend all of the individuals responsible

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From the individuals whose cowardly actions killed victims as young as eight years old to the military heroes who ran the marathon in full uniform and pack, then ran in to help victims of the blast, we saw the full range of what people are capable of.  

It's been an interesting week, to say the least. 

For those of us in housing, we also see the impact these events have on our Residents.  Some may have family members who live in the Boston area, or were running in the Marathon.  And the bombing, which at this point looks to be a terrorist attack, is bound to bring up memories of that awful September morning when we all learned that terrorism wasn't just a faraway threat. 

Your Residents may want to talk about the events.  There are likely to be several emotions that are prompted - grief, anger, fear.  While venting can be healthy, and we want to encourage our Residents to feel they can approach us, be aware that we have some other concerns we need to be mindful of.

As it appears right now, the perpetrators of this act are of Chechen Muslim descent, and immigrated to this country.  This information leaves open an opportunity for "those people" type comments.  While everyone is entitled to their opinion, no matter how distasteful, comments referencing any protected class are a potential Fair Housing concern.  Be sensitive in how you address this issue, but remember, discriminatory behavior is never appropriate. 

If you notice your Residents having a difficult time coping with these events, you should share this information with your RSC if you have one.  This way, he or she can follow up with Residents who may need some extra support. 

Flags at government and public institutions have been ordered to fly at half-staff until Saturday at sunset; sites with flags are encouraged to do the same.  You can read the Presidential proclamation here.