In Solidarity with AAPI Statement

Dear Graduate College of Education and University Community:

We cannot and will not sit idly by like bystanders when racism greets you at the front door.  

Let me express to you my deepest and heartfelt regret for the racist acts of violence that we are witnessing against our Asian-American Sisters and Brothers as seen across the country. Please know that I, the faculty, staff and students of the department of Equity, Leadership Studies and Instructional Technologies stand in solidarity with you and firmly believe that hatred and racism in any form towards anyone will never be tolerated. I know this is a difficult time for you, your families and loved ones. It evokes memories of another time and I know that brings about all those underlying emotions of fear, pain, outrage and anger and you have the right to feel every bit of that. I am outraged too.

To my friends and colleagues, we have become family, part of a larger community over the years and I love you. As Dr. King said, “Love is the only thing that can destroy hate”. So, we must be vigilant and intentional as we continue to strive for justice, peace and love. We will stand together to continue to fight against racism, racist acts/actions, bigotry, discriminatory practices, hatred and injustices of any kind.  

In Peace, Love and Solidarity 

Doris A. Flowers, Chair 

Department of Equity, Leadership Studies and Instructional Technologies