Dear colleagues,
The horrific shooting in which eight people, six of them Asian-American women, were murdered at three sites in the Atlanta metro area is a tragedy that affects all of us. The selective targeting of members of this group is being felt among Asian-Americans, in communities of color, and among all who are committed to our shared humanity. The Rockefeller University denounces this act of hatred, and racism and bigotry in all its forms.
There is a national legacy of racism against Asians and Asian-Americans, including threats and acts of violence. This has been stoked and tolerated by political leaders and others in recent years, and has resulted in rising racial violence against people of Asian ancestry in New York City and across the country. The consequence of this racism is predictable, despicable, and obvious.
We stand with the families of the victims of this tragedy and with our many friends and colleagues in the Asian and Asian-American community. Our response to this tragedy must be to come together to show a respect and love for one another that reflects all humanity’s shared ancestry and common purpose. We at Rockefeller are dedicated to the ongoing work of eliminating systemic racism and building inclusive communities here at Rockefeller and beyond.
I remind you that confidential counseling support is available to employees and students with Dr. Nisha Mehta-Naik and Lauren Rosenblum, LCSW. To schedule a confidential appointment, please call 212-327-7257.
Please continue to stay safe, be well, and take care of one another.
With best wishes,
Rick
Richard P. Lifton, M.D., Ph.D.
Carson Family Professor
Laboratory of Human Genetics and Genomics
President
The Rockefeller University