Statement on Anti-Asian Discrimination, Racism, and Violence

Standing in Solidarity with our community

The Fairbank Center for Chinese Studies stands in solidarity with Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander communities in the U.S. and around the world. We reject and denounce discrimination, harassment, racism, and violence. These deplorable acts and the individuals who perpetrate them have no place at Harvard or elsewhere. We convey our deepest sympathies to the victims and their families and extend our compassion to all in the Asian and AAPI community who are in pain.

Our collective responsibility as students and scholars of Asia is to actively work against such violence and the misguided views that drive it. Recent events show that the need to educate against false narratives that fuel racism is more pressing than ever before.

Regrettably, the latest incidents against the Asian and AAPI community adds to a long shadow cast by the legacy of historical prejudices affecting Asians and Asian-Americans in North America. Increases in attacks since the onset of COVID-19, spurred on by scapegoating and the deliberate stoking of anti-Asian sentiment for political gain, are highly disturbing. We stand together to reject this hate.

Each new incident takes an emotional and physical toll on many of those of Asian descent. Discrimination is sadly all too real and personal for many in our community. Many feel targeted and share a sense of anxiety and fear about the all-too-frequent occurrences of racist attacks, be they verbal, physical, or otherwise.

At times, these reports can trigger feelings of grief, sadness, anger, frustration, and isolation. Please take personal care in ways that are meaningful to you at these moments and know that, if needed, there are many people able to provide support.

The Department of East Asian Languages and Civilizations has an extensive and regularly-updated list of legal, social, and mental health resources for Asian and AAPI students who have or who worry that they may experience harassment and discrimination, and their allies. You can also reach out to staff and faculty. We want to do what we can to help.