Standing With Our Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander Communities

Dear SMC Community,

Over the past few weeks, you have likely heard the news about harassment and unspeakable hate crimes targeted toward Asians, Asian Americans, and Pacific Islanders (AAPI). These disturbing attacks have significantly increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. We acknowledge the pain and anger experienced by many throughout the country’s long history of anti-Asian and anti-immigrant sentiment. Saint Mary’s College of California will not tolerate hate speech and harassment, and we firmly denounce racism, xenophobia, and violence in all forms.

As a Lasallian, Catholic institution, Saint Mary’s is committed to respect for all persons, inclusive community, and social justice. We strive to eliminate inequities in educational access and promote positive educational outcomes for students from all backgrounds. Saint Mary’s unequivocally supports its Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander communities. We are committed to valuing diversity and integrating an understanding of the attitudes, values, behavior, and histories of our Asian community members and reject prejudice on campus and beyond.

It is vital that we listen to and support everyone in our community. “This theme to me is about reconnecting with our families, communities, cultures, and our own identities as we navigate through this changing world,” said Michael Montinola, a student member of the Asian Cultural Week executive team. “It is also a call for more collaboration and togetherness between the Asian community and its allies. If we are willing to listen, learn, and help others, we will find our way in these challenging times.” 

As part of our Cultural Weeks Season 2021, and in recognition of our Asian community members, I invite you to join together and celebrate the upcoming Asian Cultural Week (March 15–19), RECONNECTING....FINDING OUR WAY. This event is part of a six-week series of virtual events hosted by the Intercultural Center. It is an opportunity for Saint Mary’s students to share expressions of their individual and collective cultural identities. And it is an opportunity for us to actively listen and learn from our Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander community members.

The Saint Mary’s College community stands together against racism.

Sincerely,

Margaret Kasimatis, PhD
Interim Executive Vice President