Feb. 22, 2021
Dear CSUCI Students:
Over the past few days and weeks, we have witnessed several instances of violent attacks against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI). These acts that have taken the lives of individuals such as Vicha Ratanapakdee, an 84-year-old Thai American, who was shoved to the ground by a 19-year-old assailant, are not random, but rather the result of years of bias and prejudice that have been amplified during the pandemic, heightening the xenophobia against these communities.
As our Student Government leaders so eloquently shared in their recent Instagram message, “We will strive to amplify the voices and stories of our Asian American communities as they face unacceptable violence. It is only through collective solidarity, that we will be able to change and improve the social system and political climate that has given way to such hateful and racist attacks.”
CSUCI joins Student Government, cultural clubs on campus including KakePops and Kilusan Pilipino and other student groups, community partners throughout our region and state, and other elected officials and agencies, in condemning anti-AAPI rhetoric and violence. The long-standing racism and most recent nonsensical acts of violence accentuate the important and difficult work we have ahead but let the recent post from Student Government and this message serve as an even a stronger reminder that CSUCI does not and will not tolerate acts of discrimination, harassment, and violence in our communities.
For those who have experienced the loss of a loved one, fear of retribution for wrongly placed blame of this pandemic perpetuated in politics and media, or pain and suffering as you bear witness to the hurt, injuries, and death of individuals because of their identity, we write to you today to express our deepest sympathy and firm commitment to inclusive excellence. These experiences are as unique as the individual who is trying to heal, gain clarity, and work through the trauma.
If you need support, a list of campus offices is included below. You may also visit the Multicultural Dream Center for a list of on-campus resources. We encourage you to reach out and get the help you need.
Counseling & Psychological Services
Dean of Students office
Multicultural Dream Center
Title IX & Inclusion
Vice President for Student Affairs
It is up to all of us to ensure that any acts of violence, discrimination, and harassment are responded to immediately. As highlighted by NASPA President Kevin Kruger, Asian American activist Amanda Nguyen stated in a social media post, “This may be the first time you are hearing about this violence if you are not following Asian American news because the mainstream media does not spotlight our stories. We matter. Racism Kills.”
Let us all continue to stand in solidarity with our AAPI community, refute anti-Asian bias, and continue this long-standing and critical work to eliminate systemic racism.
Sincerely,
Richard Yao, Ph.D.
Interim President
Toni DeBoni, J.D.
Interim Vice President for Student Affairs