The Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) conducted a webinar titled “Navigating Mass Social Trauma at Events,” addressing the impact of global challenges such as the pandemic, conflicts, racism, injustice, and climate-related disasters on event planning.
The panel, representing workforce development, law enforcement, legal, and marketing sectors, discussed various types of trauma, including distinct events, complex trauma, and collective or mass trauma experienced by large groups or countries. The discussion highlighted the disproportionate impact on specific identity groups and the transmission of trauma across generations.
The panel emphasized the need for event planners to anticipate and co-create experiences that consider these elements, emphasizing cultural competencies and understanding the vulnerabilities and concerns of different social groups. Co-creating experiences based on feedback and vigilance about specific threats were identified as crucial aspects. The dynamic nature of managing collective trauma requires continuous engagement with participants to address changing concerns.
The panel also stressed the need for tailored training, particularly for incidents like hate crimes, to enhance planners’ understanding and responsiveness. Supporting recovery and resilience through peer groups and collaborative efforts before, during, and after social trauma incidents were discussed as key strategies for event organizers. The webinar aimed to equip event planners with the tools and insights needed to navigate the complex landscape of mass social trauma and ensure the safety and well-being of participants.
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