Statement of Solidarity

In these days of pandemic crisis, the Afro-American Studies Department stands in solidarity and community with Asian and Asian American, people both on and off campusWe abhor the xenophobia that has inaccurately and unfairly blamed these communities for the spread of the current COVID-19 virus.  As scholars of race and African American experience, we understand the harm that is inflicted when communities of color are unjustly scapegoated, harassed and attacked. We applaud Chancellor Rebecca Blank, the Vice Chancellor for Diversity and Inclusion Patrick Sims, and the Interim L&S Dean Eric Wilcott for their swift condemnation of this hateful behavior. We also commend the Asian American Studies Program and all those who organized and participated in the virtual town hall against hate and in support of people of Asian descent. And finally, wurge anyone who is victimized by or witness to racialized harassment or discrimination to report these incidents.  Students can filebias incident reports with the Office of the Dean of Students.  Faculty and staff can report incidents to the Office of Compliance.