Dear SMPA Community,
Our nation has experienced numerous acts of unconscionable violence in recent weeks with the mass shootings targeting the Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) community and the brutal beating and murder of Tyre Nichols by the police. As President Wrighton remarked, the pain and devastation felt by the victims’ families and broader communities affected is heartbreaking. It is our duty as a campus community to recommit to ending racial injustices, to search for the end of atrocities and the violation of human rights, and create a safe community for all.
The coverage of these events can be painful and deepen the trauma, particularly in the Black and AAPI communities. As ever, please take care in the media you consume at this time. While we continue to process these unthinkable events, it is crucial that we support our community and ourselves. Remember that university resources remain available through the Office for Diversity, Equity, and Community Engagement; Counseling and Psychological Services; Student Affairs; Human Resources; or Faculty Affairs.
And as always, the SMPA community, including faculty and staff, is here for you. My door is always open should you need to reach out.
Silvio Waisbord
Director, SMPA