Harper College

Standing in solidarity with the Asian American Pacific Islander community

Dear Harper College Community,

I want to express my deepest sympathies to all those mourning the tragic murders of eight people in Atlanta, including six women of Asian descent. Though the suspect has denied the horrific attack was racially motivated, we must not ignore the alarming rise in hate crimes against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States and the fear and pain caused by such acts. Let us stand in solidarity and work together to dismantle racism in all forms.

Stop AAPI Hate, a coalition documenting and addressing anti-Asian hate and discrimination amid the pandemic, has received nearly 3,800 reports of hate incidents across the country since March 2020. These reports of violence, harassment and civil rights violations likely represent only a fraction of the number of hate incidents actually occurring.

I also thought it was important to highlight the insights of Dr. Pam Eddinger, president of Bunker Hill Community College. She shared information and resources that may be helpful to you along with an important reminder that the violence we are currently witnessing against AAPI communities is not new. I encourage students who may need additional support to contact Counseling Services. Faculty and staff can utilize resources through our employee assistance program, Workplace Solutions.

As I’ve said on several occasions, we are committed to respecting and honoring the humanity of ALL people. We will continue to provide space for students and employees to process and contribute to building a culture in which everyone feels welcomed and affirmed in who they are. Together we can bring about new awareness and sensitivity for our college community and beyond.

Dr. Avis Proctor
President, Harper College

Last Updated: 3/14/24