Combating Anti-Asian Bias and Fostering an Inclusive Community

February 19, 2021

Dear Students,

One year into the global pandemic, hostility and violence against Asians and Asian Americans continue. Reports in recent days of increased bias crimes within Asian communities, including here in New York, are deeply upsetting. Now, more than ever, we must rely on our shared humanity as we grapple with a global crisis the likes of which none of us has experienced.

Silence in the face of hatred and acts of violence is never acceptable, for it can be confused with complacency or acquiescence. That is particularly true of a University community committed to anti-racism in all forms. We will continue to uphold our core values of inclusion and belonging, which are founded on the basic principles of respect and dignity for all individuals.

It is distressing when bigotry is revealed and we are confronted with its increased prevalence, and I want to remind you of campus resources that are available to you – including health and counseling services on the Morningside and CUIMC campuses. If you, or someone you know, has experienced bias, you can also report it to the University or contact your Dean of Students. You can always contact us at University Life by emailing [email protected].

Please take good care of yourself and each other.

Joseph Defraine Greenwell, Ed.D.
Vice President for Student Affairs
Office of University Life
Gender Pronouns: He/Him/His