*This message is being sent on behalf of David S. Stephens, MD and the RYSE Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council in the Department of Medicine
Dear Department of Medicine Community,
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen a dramatic and horrific increase in crimes and attacks against Asian people and Asian Americans. These racially motivated hate crimes have involved physical violence, harassment, and hurtful, insensitive, and xenophobic rhetoric. These are unacceptable events and reflect a long history of anti-Asian discrimination targeting Asian American and Pacific Islander persons, the elderly, families, and communities.
Today we stand in painful solidarity with our Asian and Asian American colleagues, friends, and patients in the wake of a deadly mass shooting at three separate businesses in our local Atlanta community. Eight innocent people lost their lives, and six of the victims have been identified as Asian women. Again, this hateful assault is not an isolated event.
In the Department of Medicine, we value the lives of all of our patients and colleagues and condemn any and all anti-Asian or racist actions or words of any kind. In an already difficult time, it is critical that we make support a verb—for all members of our community.
We are working toward a culture of racial equity and inclusion for people of all races, ethnicities, abilities, and intersecting identities that is critical to guaranteeing the safety and security of everyone in our community.
Sincerely,
David S. Stephens, MD and the Diversity Equity Inclusion Council led by Jada Bussey-Jones, MD, and Kimberly Manning, MD
Related Resources:
Emory Faculty Staff Assistance Program
Asia Society - Race and Racism
Asian Americans Advancing Justice - Atlanta
Anti-racism resources to support Asian-American, Pacific Islander community
CNN Georgia's Asian American leaders call for a community-centered response
Self-Care Tips For Asian Americans Dealing With Racism Amid Coronavirus
The Emory University Department of Medicine is a component of the Robert W. Woodruff Health Sciences Center of Emory University, which includes the Emory schools of Medicine, Nursing, and Public Health; Yerkes National Primate Research Center; Winship Cancer Institute; and Emory Healthcare.
