Dear Campus Community,
In recent weeks physical attacks, harassment, slurs, and acts of aggression have been directed at Asians, Asian Americans, and Pacific Islanders across the United States. These kinds of violent acts have increased in the past year since the COVID-19 pandemic began. This comes at the same time that communities of color, low-income communities, and those with disabilities and medical conditions are disproportionately affected by COVID-19. We know these groups overlap. The heightened anxiety felt by so many, who are already worried about their families, communities, and their own health, is compounded by discrimination and acts of hate.
We oppose anti-Asian racism. We condemn anti-Asian hate crimes. We stand in support and solidarity with Asian, Asian-American, and Pacific Islander students, faculty, and staff as they grapple with this surge of violence.
As we work to become an antiracist institution, we all must learn about systemic racism and marginalization, and about equity and power. At CC we commit to creating a welcoming learning and living community where all are included and empowered. As a higher education institution, we have a responsibility – and an opportunity – to break down systemic racism and build up a community that is just, that understands the long history and present iterations of bigotry and hatred, and that strives for a much better future for all.
We acknowledge that there have been incidences of racism, bigotry, and hate against other groups as well, and that we have not consistently responded with messages such as this. We are working on a plan to better address these concerns and be more inclusive in our communication.
Students, if you need support or ideas on how to take action, contact the Counseling Center, (719) 389-6093 or counselingcenter@coloradocollege.edu; the Butler Center, butlercenter@coloradocollege.edu; the diversity, equity, and inclusion team, dei@coloradocollege.edu; the Chaplain’s Office, chaplainsoffice@coloradocollege.edu; or the Wellness Resource Center, (719) 389-6211. Employees may seek counseling through the Employee Assistance Program.
Take care, and take care of one another.
Sincerely,
Mike Edmonds
Acting Co-President
Robert G. Moore
Acting Co-President
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