A Message from the President

One of the most alarming and disturbing outgrowths of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has been a surge of hate crimes, bias incidents, acts of racism, and bullying directed against the Asian community throughout the United States. Especially during the past 12 months, many Asians and Asian Americans around our country have been the target of acts of hate, violence, and discrimination. A report released by “Stop AAPI Hate” shortly after the tragic shooting spree in Atlanta, GA documented that Asian Americans were targeted in more than 3,800 hate incidents reported in the past year.

While the exact circumstances and motive surrounding the recent spree of shootings in Atlanta remain under investigation, what is certain is that six of the eight victims were women of Asian descent. Our collective prayers go out to the victims and their grieving families.

As a Catholic and Vincentian University devoted to the highest principles of love, acceptance, and human development, St. John’s stands resolutely against hatred, discrimination, and violence when directed at Asians, Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders (AAPI), or anyone else targeted by hostile forces of ill will.

I extend my personal commitment to the AAPI members of the St. John's family. Know that you are seen, heard, and supported. St. John’s stands in solidarity with the AAPI members of our University family and our extended community.

These continue to be challenging times, but together and with the help of God, we will overcome the anger, sadness, and fear that lives in the hearts of those who seek to inflict race-based violence against people of good will.