Dear UD Community,

The University of Delaware grieves with the Asian American community over Tuesday’s fatal shooting in Atlanta. Our hearts go out to the families and friends of those who were killed, and we condemn this senseless violence. Although the motivation for the shooting has yet to be fully determined, six of the eight victims of the shooting were Asian women, and we recognize the concern, fear and pain this tragedy has caused the Asian American community. We stand in solidarity with you.

With the troubling rise in anti-Asian violence and xenophobic rhetoric over the past year, we call attention to the fact that the increase in racial violence, harassment and discrimination in our country is both abhorrent and heartbreaking. The University of Delaware reaffirms our commitment to fight against racism and discrimination on our campus and in our nation. At UD, we strive to be a community that is anti-racist, fully embraces the diversity of our people and is inclusive and welcoming to all. We must continue to work together to bring these values to life on our campus and throughout the world.

We want to remind you, particularly in times of tragedy, that there are support services available to anyone in our community who needs them. The Center for Counseling and Student Development is open and available remotely, and 24/7 mental health support remains available on the UD Helpline at 302-831-1001 for any student in need of someone to talk to. Students can also reach out to the office of Student Diversity and Inclusion, which has resources for Asian Pacific Islander and Desi American students. For UD employees, the Employee Assistance Program is now provided through ComPsych GuidanceResources and Employee Health and Wellbeing has a variety of resources available to assist employees. In addition, The Office of Equity and Inclusion, the UD Antiracism Initiative and our Diversity Caucuses provide resources, support and allyship for all Blue Hens.

In support and solidarity,

Dennis Assanis
President

Fatimah Conley
Interim Chief Diversity Officer