Our statement of support for the Asian and Asian American Community
Yesterday, the Atlanta, Georgia area was the site of a heinous shooting spree that left 8 people dead, 6 of whom were women of Asian descent. Other such acts of despicable violence have been committed against Asians and Asian Americans on the West Coast and other locales in recent months. These events have caused enormous pain and fear for Asian and Asian American people across our country. Today, as we grieve alongside our Asian and Asian American Boilermakers, we recognize that the rise of anti-Asian racism has a profound impact on the well-being of our students, faculty, and staff, especially in the middle of a global pandemic.
Purdue reiterates its commitment to maintaining a community which recognizes and values the inherent worth and dignity of every person; fosters tolerance, sensitivity, understanding, and mutual respect among its members; and encourages each individual to strive to reach their own potential. As a community, we are guided in these pursuits by our core values: honor, integrity, respect, inclusion, growth, and innovation.
We are uniquely proud of the contributions of the Asian American and Asian members of our campus community. In pursuit of academic excellence, Purdue seeks to develop and nurture diversity. We believe that diversity strengthens our institution, stimulates creativity, promotes the exchange of ideas, and enriches campus life.
In particular, the Office of Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging affirms work done by units across campus to ensure that all Boilermakers feel that they belong, including the Asian American and Asian Resource and Cultural Center (AAARCC). Additionally, we remind the campus community of resources available through Counseling and Psychological Services and of the University’s system for reporting hate and bias. As we navigate these difficult times, the AAARCC would like to share upcoming opportunities that bring awareness to these issues and foster a community of support. Please see the AAAARCC website at for the links to these events.
In support of our Asian and Asian American Boilermakers,
Dr. John Fitzgerald Gates
Vice Provost for Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging
Dr. Pamela K. Sari
Director, Asian American and Asian Resource and Cultural Center
