APLU Statement Condemning Racism and Violent Attacks Against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders

Washington, DC – Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU) President Peter McPherson today released the following statement condemning racism and violent attacks against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.

“APLU and the public university community are appalled by the rising incidence of xenophobia, anti-Asian racism and violence. Racism and violence have no place in our society. It is incumbent upon us all to do our part to create a society that strongly rejects, stands up to, and roots out all hate. Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) should not have to experience the trauma and fear that many are increasingly feeling from these attacks.

“Asian American and Pacific Islanders, as well as those from Asian countries who are visiting the U.S. to study and work, are valued members of APLU and our public university community. They are our leaders, teachers, peers, friends, and neighbors. APLU and its members stand with the Asian American and Pacific Islanders community.

“The recent increase in racism and violence against members of the AAPI community is often linked to falsehoods and lies perpetuated about COVID-19. It is our duty in higher education to immediately counter this misinformation and instead speak out in support of our colleagues, students, and community members. While the increase in attacks and xenophobia may be largely tied to current events, we sadly know discrimination against AAPI members in the U.S. is deeply embedded in its history.

“Things will not change on their own. We must work to elevate issues and drive hate and discrimination away. As institutions of higher learning and engaged partners in our communities, we are committed to stamping out racism against Asian Americans and doing our part to foster an inclusive society and world that celebrates all our different cultures, heritages, and identities. APLU commits to doing more work by providing public and private forums for members of the public university community, including those who are AAPI, to discuss how to celebrate Asian cultures, heritages, and identities, and to build more inclusive and welcoming environments.”