A message of support for Niner Nation

Dear Niner Nation,

On Tuesday, March 16, eight people, including six Asian women, were murdered in the Atlanta, Georgia, area. Our hearts break for those who were lost in such a senseless act, and we send our deepest condolences to those they left behind.

While a motive for the killings remains unclear, what is clear is that over the past year, as the country has battled the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen cases of discrimination and violence against people who are Asian and Pacific Islanders increase — both nationally and in North Carolina.

As a University community, we denounce every form of hatred, bigotry, racism and violence, and strive to create an environment that celebrates and supports each other.

The events of this week are understandably frightening and unsettling for many of our faculty, staff and students. If you need support, we encourage you to reach out to the campus resources available to you:

• Office of Diversity and Inclusion
• Office of Identity, Equity and Engagement
• International Student and Scholar Office
• Dean of Students Office
• Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
• Center for Graduate Life
• Employee Assistance Program

If you witness or experience acts of bias, discrimination or harassment, please report them through the online bias reporting form found at bart.charlotte.edu. Outreach to impacted individuals will be made by the University’s Bias Advisory Resource Team. If you experience behavior that makes you fearful for your safety, please contact campus Police and Public Safety at 704-687-2200 or your local authorities.

We stand together as Niners, resolute in our commitment to diversity, inclusion and respect for all members of our community.

Sincerely,

Sharon L. Gaber, Ph.D.
Chancellor

Cheryl Waites Spellman, Ed.D.
Interim Special Assistant to the Chancellor for Diversity & Inclusion