Denouncing antisemitism and Islamophobia
Posted June 7th, 2021
Dear Colleagues,
Last Wednesday, Chancellor May and Vice Chancellor Tull sent a statement denouncing anti-Semitism and Islamophobia. In the recent weeks, our country has seen a rise in hate and bias against Jewish and Muslim people, among which have been a reported rise in harassment and violence against Jewish people, hateful vandalism of mosques and synagogue, and Islamophobic comments and images on social media. The pain and impact of these hateful acts is uniquely felt in each of these beloved communities. They occur in the context of a long legacy of oppression, bias, and discrimination endured by each community. Even so burdened, many Muslim and Jewish people stood and continue to stand in solidarity with communities impacted by racial violence and injustice. HEDI joins Chancellor May and Vice Chancellor Tull as together we remember that our “commitment to community and diversity includes standing against Islamophobia and anti-Semitism.” Please join us and start by reviewing the resources below, which discuss the history of anti-Semitism and Islamophobia, the stereotypes and biases that they promulgate, and ways to address them.
Our collective community has weathered much in these turbulent times, yet we have met each challenge with resilience, kindness, selflessness, and the determination to wholeheartedly embrace and realize the true meaning of our Principles of Community. Let us once again bring to bear this power of community to support our impacted colleagues and communities.
On behalf of the UC Davis Health Leadership,
Hendry
Hendry Ton M.D., MS
Associate Vice Chancellor for Health Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
Pronouns: he/him
Resources:
Anti-Semitism in Our Midst: Past and Present
National Public Radio article "Antisemitism Spikes, And many Jews Wonder: Where Are Our Allies?"
Islamophobia 101