Clean Air Action
No, there isn't just one group interested in breathing these days. And you don't have to wait on the state government to enact its anemic approach to the problem. SLC Air Protectors is a Native American group inspired to action by the protests at Standing Rock. Their Public Action Assembly includes a Native-led ceremony and unites activists and families with local experts to talk strategy for future generations. "We have identified our common cause as the ongoing air pollution crisis, and are striking back with a platform to organize ourselves and our communities to be effective in cleaning the air," the Facebook event description reads. Jenkstar Center for Arts and Sustainable Living, 93 W. 2100 South, Ste. 2B, Thursday, Aug. 17, 6:30-9 p.m., free, bit.ly/2wMWZrI
Suicide Prevention Workshop
Suicide is not cool, but the idea is often romanticized—until the horrific end. If you are over 15 years old, you can learn to help people cope with the pain that might lead them to want to end their lives. Join SafeTalk, a half-day training session, to become a suicide-alert helper. You don't need prior experience. The SafeTalk training can help you recognize signs of depression and suicidal behavior. "Through their words and actions, they invite help to stay alive," organizers say. "SafeTalk-trained helpers can recognize these invitations and take action by connecting them with life-saving intervention resources, such as caregivers trained in ASIST [Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training]." Salt Lake City Main Library, 210 E. 400 South, Saturday, Aug. 19, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., free, bit.ly/2uwQNaq
LGBTQ Picnic
Summer is winding down, and it's time to stand together and remind the community that everyone matters. The LGBTQ Annual Family Picnic—sponsored by the Human Rights Campaign, Utah Pride Center, Equality Utah and the Utah AIDS Foundation—is an opportunity to bring families together in celebration of the strides being made toward equality. Expect food and games in a beautiful park setting. Fairmont Park, 1040 E. Sugarmont Drive, 801-972-7860, Saturday, Aug. 19, 1-6 p.m., donations encouraged, bit.ly/2vUo5Qt