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A Message from Dean Kerwin K. Charles in Response to Violence against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders

March 19, 2021

Dear all:

I have been shocked and disgusted by acts of violence directed against Asians and Asian-Americans, including the horrific shootings in Atlanta earlier this week. I know the entire SOM community shares my feeling of abhorrence about these hateful and cowardly acts. These events illustrate, yet again, how the values we extoll here at SOM of reason, mutual respect, and a firm rejection of racism of all forms must battle ceaselessly against discrimination, ignorance, and hatred. We are committed to vigorously arguing for the principles we hold dear, and to pushing back against whatever forces of darkness motivate those who would cause pain to innocent persons because of their race, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, or any other trait. 

It is essential that we stand together as a community, drawing on our common sense of purpose and providing caring concern to each other - especially to those who feel particularly fearful or vulnerable at this moment. Our Asian American and Pacific Islander Association has worked with peers across the university to craft a response to recent events, and I urge you to read it carefully and consider signing their statement of solidarity. Upcoming events organized by our students, staff, and alumni may be of interest to you as you consider how to act in furtherance of our values of community and inclusion:

  • Yale SOM Community Reflection Gathering, March 23, 7:00 p.m. 
  • AAPIA SOM Alumni Career Panel: Advocating for Yourself, March 26, 12:00 p.m.–1:00 p.m.
  • C&I’s Conversation that Matters Series: Activating Allyship, March 26, 10:00 a.m.–11:30 a.m.

You can also learn more about university-wide efforts through Belonging at Yale. 
 
If any of you need additional support of any kind at this time, please don’t hesitate to reach out to any of the following: our dean’s designees Sheri Scully and Kristen Beyers, our Community and Inclusion team, or other university resources. I am confident that we as a community will come together in support of those who feel vulnerable at this trying time, and that the strength of our community will be one rebuttal to the doctrines of hatred.
 
Best regards,
Kerwin