BSD Superintendent Speaks Out On Hate Against AAPI Community Following Atlanta Mass Killing

From the Burlington School District:

March 19, 2021

Dear BSD Community,

One of our core beliefs is that “diversity and inclusion promote strong schools and communities” and we are committed to acting on these values of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Hate and fear lead to violence and over the course of this year, and particularly this past week, we have seen hate, fear, and violence against members of Asian, Asian-American, and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities.

BSD condemns these and all acts of hate and violence, and we stand in full support and solidarity with all members of AAPI communities in Burlington, Atlanta, San Francisco, and across the nation.

Recognizing that Asian Americans are often overlooked in discussions of racial bias in the US, the Office of Equity will be sharing teaching materials to engage students in these important conversations. With the leadership of our Office of Equity, I am also asking our staff to be diligent in support of AAPI students, families, and staff in our schools.

Please join us in supporting our AAPI communities and condemning these acts of violence. Remember, if you see something, say something. If you or your student witness or hear of any acts of Bullying, Hazing, or Harassment, please report it immediately to any adult in any of our schools or to the Central Office. We are in this together.

In solidarity,

Tom Flanagan, Superintendent

This press release was produced by the Burlington School District. The views expressed here are the author’s own.