Violence in the Nation and Pain in our Community

Dear Members of the George Washington University Community,

I am deeply saddened to address the recent instances of senseless violence in our country: the mass shootings of members of the Asian American Pacific Islander community and the cruel beating carried out by police that resulted in the death of Tyre Nichols. Learning more about these brutal attacks is heartbreaking, and I cannot imagine the anguish felt by the victims' families and loved ones.

I acknowledge the hurt and shock many are experiencing at our university, across the country, and particularly within the Asian American Pacific Islander and Black communities. I recognize these terrible events intensify the trauma and fears of violence many people experience each day. As an institution of higher learning, our university has an important role in addressing racial injustices and creating safer communities for all. I urge our community to share our support for one another as we process these recent events.

Please also know that as always university resources are available through the Office for Diversity, Equity, and Community Engagement; Counseling and Psychological Services; Student Affairs; Human Resources; or Faculty Affairs.

Sincerely yours,

Mark S. Wrighton