Recent attacks upon Asians and Asian Americans in this country are both deeply disturbing and a sharp reminder of our duty to assist, comfort and protect fellow citizens beset by hateful acts of violence because of their origins, religion or identity. It is especially important for those of us at Prairie View who are all too familiar with the kind of terror that Asian Americans are experiencing in this moment to speak out in opposition to those stoking such violence and to demonstrate our support for all communities upon which such bigotry is visited.
In our efforts to address injustices created by racism, we must be ever vigilant not to privilege the suffering of our community over that of others who endure similar treatment. We must be one with all those whose rights are violated in this fashion. I ask that you reach out and speak out. Reach out to Asian Americans and others of Asian origins who may be targeted by hate crimes and speak out in favor of public officials taking all necessary steps to assure the safety of these communities.
Finally, let us keep the families of the victims of the Atlanta area murders in our prayers.
Ruth J. Simmons
President