Dear Members of the USF Community,
Yesterday’s shootings in the Atlanta area, which left eight people dead, including six Asian women, are horrific. The investigation into what led to these acts is still emerging. But as we have seen throughout the pandemic, there has been a marked increase in racism and violence toward Asians, Asian-Americans, and Pacific Islanders. As I wrote last month, after the unprovoked attack and death of our USF neighbor Vicha Ratanapakdee, 84, USF condemns all acts of harassment, hate speech, racism, and violence.
We stand firmly with our AAPI students, faculty, staff, friends, and colleagues. Please know that the entire USF community is here to support you.
If, upon hearing about these recent tragic events, you find you need assistance, please remember that the university offers counseling and support services for students, faculty, and staff.
The Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) is available to students. CAPS staff can be reached at (415) 422-6352 or (415) 422-6351, or after hours at (855) 531-0761.
University Ministry support services are available to all community members and can be reached at (415) 422-4463 or um@usfca.edu.
Faculty and staff members can also contact CONCERN, the university’s employee assistance program, at (800) 344-4222.
Please join me in standing against injustice and hate, and in supporting all members of our diverse, inclusive, beloved community. It is important that all our students, faculty, and staff experience the unwavering support of their USF family.
Sincerely,
Paul J. Fitzgerald, S.J.
President