In Support of the Asian American and Pacific Islander Community

Sadly, when we look to the larger community, the current events that surround us present a dismal state of affairs, and I ask that we stand together for our students and in support of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. The recent brutal attacks and murders in and around Atlanta draw our attention again to the rise in anti-Asian attacks within our nation. While news sources have begun to report on possible motives, the authorities will take time needed to determine whether these horrid acts are considered hate crimes under the law. No matter what motives were at play, and no matter what is determined under the law, there are things that we do know. We know that these horrid acts occurred against a backdrop of rising anti-Asian incidents, many of which fell upon Asian-American women. We know that each incident that dehumanizes another person in our broader community is a moment that destabilizes that very community. We also know that such layers of hatred and instability around us add to the pandemic-related concerns already threatening our students.

Our mission at Stevenson is rooted in an acknowledgment of emotional needs in both learning and our everyday life experiences. While serving that mission, we condemn racist, violent acts, and we intend for our program to be as helpful as possible as students navigate such difficult conditions. The acts of bias and violence that added to the pandemic over the past year are things that we expect to weigh on many, if not all, of our students. As we move through the fourth quarter, please keep the following in mind as you seek ways to support your child at home. Listen for your child to comment on current events. Watch for them to avoid such topics. If concerns arise, encourage them to speak with their advisors or our clinicians. Remember, too, that you can email our advisors to give a behind-the-scenes heads-up about your child, or you can reach out to discuss what you've observed at home.

It is common at Stevenson that we see students express passionate beliefs about justice. As a bright spot, itself, it gives us all reason for optimism about the future. That also means that our students may be eager to learn more. If you are looking for additional resources for use at home, you might consider this collection of anti-Asian violence resources.

By Chris Ongaro
Head of School