| Dear campus community,
I am writing to inform our campus of a hate incident that occurred this morning during which two Asian American students were verbally confronted by a non-affiliate woman of Latinx descent who told them to leave the country. University Police were called to investigate. The students opted not to pursue the matter. The assailant has been banned from campus for the maximum of 14 days in compliance with regulations. First, I want to assure you that our professional staff are reaching out to the students to check in on their well-being, to offer support and resources and will continue to do so over the next days and weeks. Secondly, we are aware that these types of hate incidents have a chilling effect across a wide swath of any targeted community. Hate is a systemic phenomenon not just an individual incident. We urge you to check in with each other, with students, and with staff and faculty. Anti-Asian American hate incidents have risen dramatically across the country including the Bay Area. It is disheartening and enraging that it has also happened here on our own campus. At San José State University, we condemn all hate even those incidents that may not technically meet the level of a hate crime. Our core values of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging continue to be our guideposts through challenging moments like this. Students and employees have access to emotional support and counseling services. Students are encouraged to contact Counseling and Psychological Services or SJSU Cares and employees are encouraged to contact the Employee Assistance Program. As a reminder, our campus has a Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT) also takes referrals regarding individuals who may need help in terms of mental health. BIT can consult or can reach out to individuals to provide support. Call 408-924-6339 or use this non-emergency referral form. Additionally, the Center for Asian Pacific Islander Student Empowerment (CAPISE) is a valuable resource for students and can hold space for discussion, connection and support.
Other resources include the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and the Asian Pacific Islander Faculty and Staff Association, where staff are able to provide support and connections to resources and services. Sincerely, Steve Perez Interim President |
