Examining Services Provided by a Japanese Organisation during and after the Boston Marathon Bombing. Issue 4 (8th August 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ichihara, Ayako; Inoue, Megumi; Watanabe, Satoko; Ichihara, Naoaki
• Is Part Of: Practice. Volume 29:Issue 4(2017)
• Page Start: 243
• Page End: 258
• Publication Date: 2017-08-08
• Subjects: CALD community -- CALD-specific organisation -- emergency -- information distribution -- in-person support; Social service -- Periodicals; 361.005
• DOI: 10.1080/09503153.2016.1211261
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0950-3153

Abstract

Abstract : A diverse society requires culturally and linguistically appropriate support for all populations, especially in emergencies, which warrants contribution from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD)-specific organisations. JB Line, Inc., a local nonprofit organisation serving Japanese, provided online information and in-person support to those affected by the Boston Marathon Bombing in 2013. Descriptive statistics of access to its social media combined with qualitative content analysis of its posts suggested CALD communities' need for reliable and timely information in their native language, specifically regarding safety and mental health. Practical lessons for CALD-specific organisations included a need for cooperating with authoritative organisations, improving their visibility for wider distribution, and proactively reaching out to isolated populations.