A message in light of recent events in Atlanta

To our Stormy Petrel Community:

As a community, we continue to weather the devastating effects of coronavirus – isolation from our friends and family, missed milestones and experiences, economic hardship, and the tragic loss of life. This past year has also brought to light many prejudices towards minoritized populations: Black, Queer and Trans, Immigrants, Latinx, Indigenous and Asian bodies continue to be the target of bias incidents and crimes that have polarized communities and upset a sense of belonging for so many.

Since the pandemic began, we have also witnessed an increased amount of violence towards Asian and Asian-American communities. This has caused many members of the Asian community to live with an intensified sense of fear. This fear hit home as we witnessed the targeting of Asian women in last night’s shootings in Cherokee and Cobb Counties.

We share in the sentiments offered earlier today by President Ladany:
“We are heartbroken by the horrific murders that occurred yesterday in Atlanta. This tragedy is a somber reminder of the urgency we must feel in working to eradicate intolerance and racism. Please know that we stand proudly in support of those of Asian descent in the Oglethorpe community and are here to support you.”

As we move forward, we want to reiterate that our community stands by our Campus Civility Statement:

“We must be committed to the highest standards of civility and decency and to promoting a community where all people can work and learn together in an atmosphere free of demeaning behavior or hostility.”

If you are a victim or know of a situation in which someone has been a victim, please file a report with the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities. Faculty and Staff are able to report similar experiences through Human Resources. If you are in need of counseling services, please visit our Counseling Center website.

Over the next several days, we encourage you to seek the supports you need and to know that you are seen. In addition, the Offices of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Campus Life and Global Education will be planning intentional programming to continue to support the community in promoting equity and inclusion.

Sincerely,

Dr. Laura Renee Chandler (She/Her)
Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Michelle Hall (She/Her)
Vice President for Campus Life

Dr. Kyle R. Williams (He/They)
Dean of Students