President Martha E. Pollack released the following statement March 17:

The recent string of shootings in the Atlanta area, which left at least six Asian women dead, is appalling, and my heart goes out to the victims and their families. While the details of these killings are still forthcoming, we do know that throughout the course of the pandemic, there has been a marked increase in racism and violence toward Asians and Asian Americans.

It is intolerable that these communities have experienced acts of racism, violence and hatred. As a campus community, we denounce these vile acts and stand firmly with our Asian and Asian American friends and colleagues. 

Please know that we are here to support you. Cornell takes reports of bias or discrimination seriously, and any members of our community who have experienced or witnessed an act of bias are encouraged to report the incident. And, for Cornell’s Asian and Asian American students, staff and faculty, please know that the Asian and Asian American Center is also here to support you, as is the Faculty and Staff Assistance Program (FSAP).