President Drake: Supporting our Asian colleagues and communities against violence
March 11, 2021 •
President Michael V. Drake, M.D., sent the following message to all UCOP staff on Thursday, March 11, 2021:
UC President Michael V. Drake, M.D.
Dear UCOP colleagues:
Over recent weeks we have seen an alarming number of reports of acts of violence directed against Asian-Americans. These have occurred in communities throughout the state, including our own neighborhood in Oakland, and across the country.
These attacks are cowardly and abhorrent. It is particularly disturbing that many of the most violent acts have been directed toward older Asian people.
Countering racism in all its forms requires more than just societal and institutional change. It requires work from each of us. We all must live our shared values of mutual respect and compassion.
In the coming weeks, we will be holding a series of open conversations for the UCOP community, similar to the ones held last summer and fall. These gatherings are important opportunities for us to share with and learn from each other, to support one another, and to come together as a community and reaffirm our collective commitment to making UC a place where all people are treated with respect and dignity.
I’ve asked each member of the UCOP executive leadership team to attend at least one of these sessions. I encourage all UCOP staff to attend at least session one as well. Details about the forums will be available in Link and other communications.
As always, please continue to take care of yourself, each other, and your loved ones.
Fiat Lux,
Michael V. Drake, M.D.
President
