Anti-Asian Bias and Hate

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff:

Since the beginning of the pandemic, there has been a disturbing rise in anti-Asian bias and hate in our country. It is revealed in a variety of ways—verbal harassment, physical attacks and others. All of them are reprehensible and cowardly.

We are disgusted by these events, including those that have occurred in recent weeks here on our campus. There have been at least two incidents that we know of where our Asian and Asian American communities have been targeted. They include a passerby who made a racist comment at an individual outside their home. And just yesterday, flyers were discovered on campus bulletin boards degrading Asian students as agents of the Chinese government.

Both of these incidents are being investigated. With this most recent incident, we don’t know if the individual or individuals responsible are affiliated with the University. What we do know is these actions and behaviors are disgraceful and harmful, and anyone who harbors these kinds of biases is not welcome in our community.

We must show support to everyone in our community harmed by these hateful events. Support is available through:

• Center for International Services: 315.443.2457, international@syr.edu
• Dean of Students Office: 315.443.4357, dos@syr.edu
• STOP Bias: 315.443.3514, stopbias@syr.edu
• Barnes Center at The Arch: 315.443.8000, barnescenter@syr.edu

We must stand united against all forms of bias, discrimination and hate whenever they occur.

Sincerely,

Chancellor Kent Syverud

Keith A. Alford
Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer