Rev. Sky Starr's "Fractured Communities" examines effects of gun violence
Post Date: Apr 30 2022
Post Date: Apr 30 2022
We published a blog on Gun violence in February of 2021, after the publication of "Under the Gun" by Ngabo & Plana in the Toronto Star on January 30, 2021. “Under the Gun” was about neighbourhood gun violence in Toronto. In the article, Reverend Sky Starr was featured, revealing her personal response to gunshots heard in her neighbourhood, and her professional concern about the trauma that gun violence has wrought on the community.
Rev. Starr contributed a chapter to Canadian Community as Partner.
Now, Rev. Starr has written Fractured Communities: Dissecting the Ripple Effects of Gun Violence (published by Higher Healing Counselling Services, 2021).
A public health approach to gun violence prevention, along with trauma-focused therapy, are needed to address the effects of gun violence on those affected by the loss and injury that result in family and community suffering. In this publication, Rev. Sky Starr shares her experience of supporting those healing efforts.
She writes from the unique perspective of living in and with the community she serves. The book is in 4 parts: community grief, recognizing and validating community trauma, reluctant travellers, and holistic overview. Data are presented, emotions are recognized, and reactions to violence are detailed. Through the documentation of struggles, and her immense commitment to people, Rev. Starr exemplifies the conviction that community healing is possible and is indeed an integral part of community development. We can all learn from her insights.