The Arizona ACEs Consortium and the Governor's Office of Youth, Faith and Family put on a wonderful event yesterday! Arizona's First Lady, Angela Ducey, delivered a poignant speech about the importance of recognizing ACEs within the Foster Care System, based on personal experience with her nephew. She was authentic in her love of children and concern for their well-being. It was especially wonderful to hear that she is so knowledgeable about ACES!!! The Governor's address also expressed genuine concern for our children and the importance of the ACEs movement. The last keynote speaker, Dr. Bruce Perry was of course a mind-blower! Who in God's name can make neurology so palatable for the masses??!!! As always, Dr. Perry drew in the crowd and we all sat like conscientious students following his intricate explanation of the brain. I LOVE that Dr. Bruce Perry continues to acknowledge Historical Trauma in his work.

I lead and designed the Historical Trauma break-out session. It was amazing that 118 people were interested enough to register for our session!!! Elder Ken White, Jr. from Navajo Nation, Elder Propser Waukon from the Winnebago Tribe and Dr. Carlian Dawson all presented fantastic information from their various points of view. My presentation focused on the 3 Faces of Historical Trauma which is based on the Jewish Holocaust, Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade and the Native American Genocide. A summary of my presentation is available as an attachment.

It's an exciting time for ACEs survivors! It's an exciting time for our children! Congratulations to the state of Arizona for having leadership that is listening and aware of the problems our children face. There is hope.