The School of Public and International Affairs at the University of Georgia mourns eight members of the greater Atlanta community who were murdered on Tuesday, March 16th. Six victims were of Asian descent; seven were women. SPIA stands in solidarity with our Asian, Asian-American, and Pacific Islander students, staff, faculty, and alumni during this difficult time.

Acts of intolerance, hate, and violence towards Asian and Asian-American citizens are abhorrent and must be condemned in the strongest terms. From the study of politics, we know that words have power, and racist views propounded by powerful people serve to normalize hate and xenophobia. These practices violate the values of tolerance, openness, community, and human dignity. We stand against the forces that dehumanize members of our community and recommit to fostering anti-racism and inclusive public service at SPIA.

Members of our school and university community may wish to consider the full suite of health and wellbeing support services on campus, including Student Care and Outreach, Multicultural Services and Programs, International Student Life, and Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS). Please know that SPIA faculty and staff are part of the larger support network, too.

– Matthew Auer, Dean, SPIA