Governors State University Stands Against Hate

Dear Governors State Students, Faculty, and Staff:

A few days ago we witnessed the tragic loss of eight innocent people – this time outside the city of Atlanta. On March 16, a lone gunman walked into three businesses and shot nine people, killing eight. Of those, six of the victims were women of Asian descent.

We extend heartfelt condolences to members of the Asian and Asian American community on our campus and across the country, torn by violence and hatred.

Although authorities are saying the shootings were not racially motivated, we know our fellow Asian citizens have seen the number of attacks on their lives and businesses creep up in the days and months since the COVID-19 pandemic first disrupted our lives.

Governors State University recognizes this incident was not isolated, and was, in fact, the latest in an ugly pattern of hate. We stand in solidarity with the entire Asian community and all who have been marginalized and targeted by racism and misogyny and xenophobia.

An attack against one of us is an assault on all of us. We must come together across race, gender, and ethnicity to present a united front against hatred.

As always, Governors State’s counseling team is standing by to offer additional support and resources, if needed. Please reach out to the Counseling and Wellness Center for emotional support. Off campus, there are several groups offering broader support and advocacy:

Though we are saddened by this event, it does present an opportunity to emphasize the values at the core of the Governors State University community, a welcoming place that embraces a rich diversity of ethnicities and cultural identities. I am confident that together we will overcome this and all other challenges that we may face. Together, we must.

Dr. Cheryl Green,

President, Governors State University