Dear Marietta College Family,
Once again, the Marietta College Community — as well as our nation — is shocked and saddened by the senseless killing of people of color, this time Asian Americans in Atlanta.
Over the past 12 months, we have seen in the news, and some of you have likely witnessed in person, an increased prevalence of violence toward Asian Americans. The frequency at which these violent acts have occurred and are occurring makes it evident that race is a factor.
While officials are still investigating if the alleged gunman in Atlanta targeted the victims because they were Asian, it has become clear that our nation is experiencing an increased rate of violence and abuse directed toward people of Asian descent. Also, we should not ignore the role gender may have played in this most recent senseless act of violence in Atlanta.
Speaking on behalf of all at Marietta College, we condemn acts of violence, and even more importantly the racism, bias, bigotry, misogyny, and xenophobia that may have incited these acts. Historically, Marietta has welcomed and has been home to hundreds of bright and talented students from China, Japan, India, and other Asian countries as well as many Asian American students. The cultures that they share with our community have enriched our lives.
Over the past year, we watched and listened to influential individuals who intensified an anti-Asian sentiment in our nation by sharing false and inaccurate statements about who is accountable for the global pandemic. That is why it is even more important now to remind all of you that Marietta College remains an inclusive community that welcomes people from a broad range of racial, ethnic, and other cultural backgrounds. We endeavor to ensure that a broad range of experiences, perspectives, and ideas are explored and appreciated so that we can all develop empathy for others and a better understanding of ourselves and others and the complex society we are part of, with the goal of achieving mutual respect and a more inclusive appreciation of our shared humanity.
I want to take this moment to call for unity with our Asian and Asian American students, faculty, and staff. We are here for you.
If any students are in need of support, please contact the Center for Health and Wellness at (740) 376-4477. You can also reach out to Tony Mayle in the Office of Diversity and Inclusion in Andrews 105, call him at (740) 376-3287, or email him at aam006@marietta.edu. Faculty and staff may contact the Employee Assistance Program by calling 1-800-316-2796. If anyone feels unsafe, please contact Campus Police at (740) 376-3333.
Regards,
Bill Ruud
President and Professor of Management