In the midst of a surge of violence throughout the pandemic towards members of the Asian, Pacific Islander and Desi American (APIDA) community, we are heartbroken at the murders in the Atlanta, Georgia area this week. These homicides follow well-documented spikes in harassment against APIDA individuals throughout the United States including women, elders, health care professionals, and researchers.
We condemn racism against members of the ADIPA community.
We stand with students, faculty and staff of Asian, Pacific Islander and Desi American descent in the UW School of Medicine and Public Health.
We see you.
We will act in solidarity against xenophobia and anti-Asian racist violence.
We are committed to addressing racism and all of its impacts, including the role of racism as a driver of health inequities.
We are committed to dismantling racism in ourselves, in our institution, and in our community.
During this time of mourning, please remember there are resources available within and beyond our institution:
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- The UW–Madison APIDA affinity group supported by the Division of Diversity, Equity & Educational Achievement (DDEEA)
- The Asian, Asian American, Pacific Islander (AAPI) Employee Resource Group (ERG)facilitated by the UW Health Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
- Support for SMPH learners through the Office of Multicultural Affairs, 608-265-4867 oroma@med.wisc.edu
- The UW–Madison chapter of Asian Pacific American Medical Student Association(APAMSA)
- UW–Madison Dean of Students Office, 608-263-5700
- University Health Services Mental Health Services, 608-265-5600 (option 9)
- Employee Assistance Office, 608-263-2987
- Report mistreatment or harassment of SMPH students
- Report incidents of bias or hate to the UW–Madison Dean of Students Office
- A resource collection curated by DDEEA of books, articles, documentaries, and organizations is available to support the AIDPA community
The UW School of Medicine and Public Health is committed to creating an environment free of discrimination on the basis of age, creed, gender identity, national origin, race, sex, or sexual orientation. Our Shared Guidelines for Professional Conduct specify our pledge to treat everyone with respect, and totake action when behavior contrary to these guidelines occurs.
As we begin to emerge from the pandemic shaken by loss, let us take this opportunity to come together in ways that are true and lasting. Let us allow these sorrows to shape us and deepen our resolve. And let us renew our commitment to advancing health and health equity by respecting the rights, dignity, and differences of all.