March 21, 2021
The advancement of diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice for people of all races/ethnicities and national origins is essential in guaranteeing everyone’s well-being and safety in society. On March 16, eight people, including six women of Asian descent, were shot dead in Atlanta. We offer our condolences to the families and all who are impacted by the murders of these victims. This shooting is not the first time that the Asian American community has experienced violence and discrimination. According to Stop AAPI Hate, there have been nearly 3,800 reports of hate incidents targeting Asian Americans nationwide since last March alone.
The National Association for Professional Development Schools denounces and condemns racism, xenophobia, and intolerance against those of Asian descent. As an organization that is striving to center antiracism, and in light of the approaching International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on March 21, 2021, we call on all those involved in professional development schools, school-university partnerships and all educators to take a stand against racism, violence, and discrimination against the Asian, Pacific Islander, and Asian American communities. NAPDS has a responsibility to stop racism, xenophobia, and intolerance against the Asian community.
In solidarity,
NAPDS