As the public health crisis associated with the Coronavirus pandemic continues to unfold, there have been disturbing reports of an increase in anti-Asian, and particularly anti-Chinese, hate crimes and harrassment in communities across the United States, including New Haven. At this time of heightened individual and societal stress, the Yale Anthropology Department and the Council on Archaeological Studies, in solidarity with other departments and programs, wish to reiterate firm rejection of all forms of racism and xenophobia, and to urge awareness of the relationship between recent developments and the longer history of “yellow peril” fear mongering in the US and elsewhere.
Recent statements by the Association for Asian American Studies and the President of the Association for Asian Studies contain useful resources, both for those directly affected by harassment, and those who are concerned about it.
Although we very much hope this will not be necessary, please remember that if you find yourself targeted for harassment or discrimination of any kind, there are people here at Yale who can help.
If you find yourself in an emergency situation, call 911. For non-emergencies call the Yale Police Department at 203-432-4400.
The Asian American Cultural Center offers student emotional wellness support services. Students can also contact deans’ designees with any concerns about discrimination and harassment. Staff and faculty, and students too, can reach out to the Office of Institutional Equity and Access.
If you are affected, and need assistance, you can also reach out to many other university resources, including Student Mental Health and Counseling, the Chaplain’s Office, the Employee Assistance Program, Office of International Students and Scholars, a supervisor, dean, head of college, or another advisor.