March 20, 2021
Dear CSD community,
I was dismayed this week by the news of the recent violent attack in Atlanta that took the lives of women of Asian descent. This events and others in our nation continue to remind us of the unacceptable aggression and discrimination in our society. These behaviors are endemic and disproportionately impacting specific groups.
I join L&S’s Dean Wilcots and UW’s Interim Chief Diversity Officer in expressing my deep concern over the acts of violence. These are often, but not always, rooted in discrimination, racism, hatred and bigotry. Whether or not an act of violence is racially motivated, the outcome is the creation in many people who are Asian of fear and sense of not being welcome.These sad events remind all of us about our shared responsibility to care for and look out for each other.
With this in mind, I am expressing solidarity with and compassion for our women and our Asian colleagues.
In the words of our dean:
“As individuals, and as a campus community, we must reject acts of bias and hatred. Tolerating jokes and perpetuating stereotypes can lead to harmful impacts on our fellow students, faculty and staff. We must stand up and speak out when we see others engaging in hurtful language and behavior, whether in person or behind the backs of those who are targeted. We must protect one another.”
If you are struggling with these events, please reach out to friends, family, or professionals.
Please reach out to me if I can be of help.
Sincerely,
Ruth Litovsky
Chair and Professor, Communication Sciences and Disorders