March 26, 2021
The Ohio State Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center strongly condemns racism, violence, and intolerance against Asians, Asian Americans, Desi Americans, and Pacific Islanders (APIDA). As an international research center, we strive to foster an inclusive community across all disciplines and amongst faculty, staff, students, and collaborators. We are deeply saddened by the recent violence against the Asian community in Atlanta, Georgia, and would like to reiterate our zero tolerance for divisive language, violent actions, and other discriminatory behaviors against any of our members. Today and every day, we commit to ending the prejudice, hatred, and discrimination which has led to the increase in violence against the APIDA community. Below are resources for learning how to create an inclusive environment:
- Ohio State Office of Diversity and Inclusion: odi.osu.edu
- Center for Belonging and Social Change: https://cbsc.osu.edu/education-and-workshops
The Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center stands in solidarity with the Asian and Asian American members of our community, and we ask all our members to do the same. In conjunction with The Ohio State University Code of Conduct, we strongly encourage our faculty, staff, and students to assist in preventing racial discrimination by standing up for each other and reporting all incidents to the University. Below are resources for identifying and reporting hate crimes, harassment, and discrimination:
- equity.osu.edu, 614-247-5838 or TTY 614-688-8605
- An anonymous concern may also be reported through EthicsPoint.
- Ohio State University/CPD for non-emergencies call 614-292-2121
Lastly, if you are in distress or need to talk with someone, please know that Ohio State has resources to help. Students may contact Counseling and Consultation Services at any time by calling 614-292-5766 or visiting their website at ccs.osu.edu. For a comprehensive list of student mental health resources, visit ccs.osu.edu/services. Mental health services are also available to Ohio State faculty and staff through the Employee Assistance Program. All EAP counselors are independently licensed behavioral health professionals with years of experience and a commitment to the university community. Call 800-678-6265 or visit https://hr.osu.edu/benefits/eap/ for more information.
In Solidarity,
Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center Education and Outreach Team