We are shocked and saddened by the news of the shootings in Atlanta, which comes amidst a larger wave of violence against the Asian American and Pacific Islander community. We unequivocally condemn these acts of violence, and express our support for the Asian American community at this difficult time.
Over the past year, we have seen acts of hatred and violence targeting Black and Brown people. As discussed at last week’s Earth Institute town hall meeting on Combating Anti-Asian Bias, these issues are not mutually exclusive, and we stand together against all forms of bias and hate. The alarming increase in bias-related violence against non-white people across different communities speaks to the larger issue of the systemic racism embedded in our society and institutions.
At times like this, solidarity and unity are more crucial than ever. As members of the EI community, in the face of these events the most important task for us right now is to support our Asian American colleagues, and all colleagues of color, in real and meaningful ways by creating spaces for conversations about racial justice and implementing policies that advance diversity, equity, inclusion and anti-racism.
As we process these events, here are some resources to guide us. I encourage you to sign up for the Bystander Intervention to Stop Anti-Asian/American Harassment and Xenophobia. Further, I encourage you to check out How to Support Asian American Colleagues and Anti-Racism Resources to Support Asian American and Pacific Islander Community.
Within Columbia, there are various resources available, including counseling and psychological services through Columbia Health. Columbia Health is hosting a virtual support space for Asian International and Asian American Columbia students to speak openly about their experiences and reactions to this tragedy, on Friday, March 19 at 5:00 PM ET.
If you need to report a bias incident you may do so via University Life Responding to Bias or EOAA Report an Incident.
Please feel free to reach out to me with any thoughts, concerns, or suggestions you might have.
