Contact:
Kellee Edmonds
(202) 478-4662
edmondsk@aascu.org

WASHINGTON, March 17, 2021 – “Our hearts grieve for those lost in the senseless shootings in the Atlanta area on Tuesday that killed eight innocent people, six of them Asian women.

While the investigation is ongoing, this incident fits a clear pattern. Statistics show that since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have witnessed a disturbing and unacceptable rise in attacks on Asians, Asian Americans, and the Pacific Islander community. Last year there were more than 3,800 racist incidents across the United States targeted against Asians, predominantly women.

This epidemic of intolerance and harassment is unacceptable. I speak for the entire AASCU family when I say hate has no place in our communities. Our greatest strength comes from our diversity, and we must reject those who seek to spur divisions through acts of violence and bigotry. We stand against hatred and racism in any form.

AASCU is committed to continuing the important work of diversity, equity, and inclusion across the country. We value and recognize the importance of ensuring welcoming and safe environments free of fear for all.”

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The American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) is a Washington, D.C.-based higher education association of nearly 400 public colleges, universities, and systems whose members share a learning- and teaching-centered culture, a historic commitment to underserved student populations, and a dedication to research and creativity that advances their regions’ economic progress and cultural development. These are institutions Delivering America’s Promise. Visit us at www.aascu.org.