APS Response to Recent Events and Support for our Asian American Community

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Arlington Public Schools condemns racism and all expressions of hate, bias and discrimination. The horrific shootings in Atlanta earlier this week are a tragic reminder of the increase in violent attacks, hate speech and discrimination targeting Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. We grieve with the families of the victims of the shootings in Atlanta on March 16 and share the sorrow of all who stand against hate and discrimination.

We recognize how the violent attacks on Asian Americans have deeply affected members of our APS community, and we stand with them. These events cause heightened anxiety and are difficult for our students, families, and employees to process. They impact us all.

Please know that APS is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and welcoming community. We will continue to work with our schools to bring more awareness to the issue of anti-Asian hate speech, and on ways to support our Asian and Asian American students, families, and staff.

We urge all students and staff to continue to call out harassment or hate speech of any kind. Speak to an administrator, counselor, parent/guardian, or trusted adult for help. Our mental health teams, including school counselors, psychologists and social workers, are here to support any students who may experience or witness comments or acts that could be considered racist or offensive.

In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., “An injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”

Resources:

• Challenging Anti-Asian Bias and Acting as An Ally
• Countering COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Stigma and Racism: Tips for Parents and Caregivers
• Talking to Children about Violence – Tips for Parents and Teachers
• APS Parent Resource Center (PRC): Talking with Kids About Race and Discrimination: Video
• Register for the Follow-up Session on Monday, March 22 at 6 pm.