Supporting our Asian, Asian American & Pacific Islander community
March 22, 2021
Dear UAlbany Community:
The University at Albany stands strongly and unequivocally with the Asian, Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. Given the escalation of anti-AAPI violence and hate speech across the nation, we want to reaffirm UAlbany’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Unfortunately, we continue to experience hate crimes, institutional racism, and discrimination against the AAPI community and other communities of color across the country. Sadly, racism and hate crimes are not new, but the current surge in acts of bias and violence has led to increased fear and anxiety for many members of our AAPI community.
As an institution of higher education, we must play a leadership role in helping dismantle violence, bigotry, and hatred against these communities. Our moral compass must move us from words of indignation to concrete actions, which should result in important changes in our plans and initiatives—from reviewing our academic curriculum, to rethinking our hiring practices, to enhancing our campus climate in ways that clearly demonstrate our strong commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.
To the AAPI members of the UAlbany family, as well as allies and advocates, please know that the University remains committed to providing ongoing support through the Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI). We also encourage students seeking support to reach out to the Office of the Dean of Students at [email protected] or at 518-442-5501.
Further, you can reach our Middle Earth Peer Assistance Program hotline at 518-442-5777. Middle Earth assists students in coping with emotional, social, and other life issues they may face. Faculty and staff can contact the Employee Assistance Program at [email protected] or 518-442-5483.
Please also monitor your UAlbany email for upcoming activities that will both provide support for our AAPI community members and raise awareness about anti-AAPI discrimination and bias.
As a campus community, we must strive to eliminate all forms of marginalization and discrimination. Together, let us continue to take a holistic approach across the institution as we seek to address systemic racism in our community and beyond.
Sincerely,
Havidán Rodríguez
President
Carol H. Kim
Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs
Michael Christakis
Vice President for Student Affairs
Samuel Caldwell
Interim Chief Diversity Officer