Dear Arcadia Community,

 

We all have been asked to take extraordinary measures in the face of the COVID-19 global pandemic. While it is heartening to see communities come together to support one another during this challenging time, it is disappointing to hear reports of a rise in racist and xenophobic sentiments and actions across our nation targeting individuals of Asian descent. In addition, there have been reports of retail establishments denying entry to African Americans who wear protective masks, or who are targeted for not wearing them. Unfortunately, crises can bring out the worst in some people. 

 

At Arcadia, we have seen our community come together in solidarity, as this crisis has brought out the best in our community members. To my knowledge, we have received no reports of COVID-19-related attacks against members of our community. We are a community composed of global citizens of diverse cultures, languages, and backgrounds—one that practices our lived values at home and around the world. We are committed to preserving the dignity and value of every individual and to remaining strong and united. Xenophobia, racism, and other forms of discrimination or harassment have no place at Arcadia University.

 

If you have been impacted by any act of discrimination or harassment, we encourage you to seek support and resources, such as with

, and to report such behavior to your supervisor,

,

, the

, or

(for faculty and staff). 

 

So many in our community have stepped forward in support of our students, our community members, and our University. Let us continue to display fearlessness, integrity, justice, and respect in the face of COVID-19, continue to remain #ArcadiaStrong, and continue to show that each member of our community is united in support of one another and against forces of exclusion and hate that would tear us apart.