CCM's statement on Asian American hatred and violence

Dear CCM faculty, staff and students,

The rise of violence and bigotry against Asian and Asian Americans is reprehensible and unacceptable. CCM leadership stands against discrimination in all forms — we value our community’s diverse experiences and perspectives, and offer support in the face of adversity.

On Wednesday, President Pinto released a statement about the increase in hatred and violence directed at Asian and Asian Americans:

"Hate and violence against our Asian American communities is rising and reprehensible. As a nation, we must do more to abolish bigotry and protect and celebrate difference. As a campus community, we must show our strength in unity by standing with our Asian American students, faculty, staff and alumni to renounce all forms of hate and violence. The urgency has never been greater. Each of us must answer the call to act." 

We are at our best when we stand together, united in our pursuit of excellence and innovation in the arts. We must do more to protect and support those who are targeted and face discrimination. Any harassment or discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, genetic information, sex, age, sexual orientation or gender identity and expression is intolerable to our mission.

CCM’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) committee invites our entire community to participate in Disrupt Now’s Art and Equity Summit on April 22-23.

Faculty and staff members are encouraged to take advantage of the many DEI workshops offered by the Office of Equity and Inclusion through Faculty OneStop. Students can find a variety of workshops and virtual events designed to dismantle racism and promote social justice on CampusLink.

If you are experiencing harassment or discrimination, please speak with faculty and staff about connecting with the Office of Equal Opportunity and Access. UC has also created an Equity and Inclusion App where community members can receive news related to inclusion initiatives, sign-up for equity and inclusion training, participate in discussion boards and provide feedback to the university.

Please know that CCM faculty and staff are here to listen and to support you. We pledge to stand with our Asian and Asian American community members, and to celebrate and support the diverse perspectives and experiences of all CCM students, faculty and staff.

Sincerely,

Stanley E. Romanstein, Ph.D.
Dean | Thomas James Kelly Professor of Music
University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music