Reflecting the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s unwavering commitment to racial justice, leaders from across the institution have responded to the recent national rise in anti-Asian attacks.
Co-leaders of the university’s Journey for Anti-Racism and Racial Equity issued the most recent statement, which included multiple resources to expand individual knowledge on the positive impacts of Asian Americans Pacific Islander communities.
“We stand in empathetic solidarity with the AAPI communities, and we express deep sadness and regret for the terrible loss of life and for the grave repercussions that this violence is wreaking on the AAPI community among us,” the co-leaders wrote in their statement.
Recommended resources from the Journey co-leaders include a recent "Asian Americans" series presented by NET/PBS, and a March 25 Dish it Up conversation.
Read the entire Journey co-leader statement here.
Chancellor Ronnie Green also tweeted in solidarity with all Asian and Asian-American Huskers, elevating a statement issued by Josh Davis, associate vice chancellor for global affairs.
“To our Asian and Asian-American Huskers, I want you to know you are a vital part of our community and art supported here,” Green said. “This is your home and you matter.”
To our Asian and Asian-American Huskers, I want you to know you are a vital part of our community and are supported here. This is your home and you matter. We are listening, learning and are with you as we navigate this difficult time together. https://t.co/RefreRvu4I
— Ronnie D. Green (@RonnieDGreen) March 18, 2021
In his statement, Davis acknowledged the fear that has impacted the AAPI community in the last year and reinforced the university’s commitment to inclusivity.
“…we recognize our duty to create an inclusive university where every person and every interaction truly matter,” Davis said. “We will continue to collaborate closely with the Office of Diversity and Inclusion and colleagues across campus as we work towards this important goal at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.”
In his response, Marco Barker, vice chancellor for diversity and inclusion, urged the campus community to remain vigilant in its pursuit of inclusive excellence and offered paths to support the AAPI community.
“It is important we stand together to protect, support and lift up our humanity — this absolutely inclues our AAPI colleagues, friends and communities,” Barker said. “Taking action means as bystanders we speak up when we have the opportunity to use our positionality to help others; we report and encourage AAPI community members to report acts of hate or discrimination when it occurs; we take advantage of learning opportunities—workshops, courses, and programs; and we engage in acts of kindness and host activities that provide an alternative message of love and belonging.”
"It is important we stand together to protect, support, and lift up our humanity—this absolutely includes our AAPI colleagues, friends, & communities..." read Vice Chancellor @DrMarcoBarker's statement on standing in solidarity against anti-Asian violence. https://t.co/M8HnrnWX2B pic.twitter.com/djD4wVBRUv
— UNL Diversity and Inclusion (@UNL_ODI) March 22, 2021
Nebraska's Charlie Foster, representing the Office of Academic Success and Intercultural Services, stressed the need for the entire university community to have deeper discussions on inclusive actions. She also encouraged students to seek assistance through Counseling and Psychological Services if they've been impacted by recent events.
"You are not alone. OASIS is committed to supporting our students," Foster said. "We invite students to reach out to our staff — we are available to you. In times like these, we must remember that hate will never win."
— Charlesette Foster (@sweet2charlie) March 21, 2021
And, Ted Carter, president of the University of Nebraska system, stressed the need for all to actively reject racism and misogyny wherever they occur.
“To all the Asian American members of the University of Nebraska family, the chancellors and I want you to know that we value you and stand with you,” Carter said. “We remind our entire community to take care of each other and work every day to build a more welcoming, safe and inclusive climate for all.”
The horrific events in Georgia this week have underscored the painful challenges that many Asian and Asian American members of our community are facing. The rise in attacks against Asians over the past year, particularly against Asian women, is unacceptable.
— Ted Carter (@UofNE_President) March 19, 2021
