Violence Against Asians and Asian Americans
March 18, 2021
Dear Friends,
The rising tide of violence and harassment directed at Asians and Asian Americans that has been recorded in recent years is deeply disturbing and reminds us that bigotry is embedded in human character and in our society. This week, we learned of the murders of Asian Americans in Atlanta. While it is premature to draw conclusions, we are nonetheless horrified at the loss of life and deeply concerned that we may have witnessed another crime driven by hate. We condemn acts of violence and we condemn acts of violence motivated by prejudice.
Our nation was built by people who came from every corner of the globe. Our complex modern economy is sustained by the creativity and intellectual capacities of researchers and entrepreneurs who come from all backgrounds and nations. We speak of our country as one that is a beacon—a society that values human life and the dignity of every individual. Recent events continue to remind us that we have many arduous miles ahead of us before we can close the gap between our ideals and our realities.
Asian and Asian American members of our community have ample reason to be alarmed by the events on March 16 and by the broader trends we have seen. I encourage everyone at Boston University to remember what we value and stand for as an institution and to stand by our Asian and Asian American community members in friendship and solidarity.
As we lean into the challenge of building a safer, more equitable and just society, I will note that Boston University offers a range of supports and services for those who are experiencing stress or who may have been the object of harassment rooted in prejudice. Counseling services are available to students, faculty, and staff through Student Health Services and Behavioral Medicine, the Faculty & Staff Assistance Office, and through our spiritual leaders based at Marsh Chapel. In addition, staff members at the Dean of Students Office are available to meet with individuals or groups who have concerns. Finally, specific claims about actions that may violate University anti-discrimination policy may be brought to the attention of the Equal Opportunity Office.
Through our daily actions—how we treat each other—we define what it means to be an inclusive community. In our teaching and research, we can highlight prejudice and injustice and illuminate a path forward. We have no choice but to press on.
Sincerely,
Robert A. Brown
President