This message was sent to the GSEHD community in the wake of the attacks in Atlanta that killed eight people, including six Asian women, on March 16, 2021.
March 19, 2021
Hate begets hate; violence begets violence; toughness begets a greater toughness. We must meet the forces of hate with the power of love. -Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Dear Friends,
We have witnessed yet another outburst of dreadful violence, the victims this time being members of the Asian community in America who, as a group, have since the pandemic endured resurgent and terrible outbursts of hatred and bigotry. Our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the victims.
President LeBlanc’s message is an eloquent and powerful reminder of GW’s unequivocal stance against all acts of violence and hate.
We in GSEHD stand in solidarity with our Asian brothers and sisters and all victims of racism, sexism, and xenophobia. Our faculty, students and staff who are Asian or of Asian descent are valued members of our community. GSEHD will continue our efforts to combat hate and prejudice through our mission of teaching, scholarship and service. We add our voice to those who know that silence is acquiescence, and encourage GSEHD students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends to do the same.
Michael Feuer, Dean
Dwayne Wright, Interim Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Initiatives