Denouncing Hate - March 23, 2021

 
Denouncing Hate Crimes and Bigotry Targeting Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders
Last week was a tough week; one that was wrought with strong emotions.  The week left me to wonder whether any of us are immune from the vile and venomous actions of bigotry and racism.  Like many of you, I gasped, and was at a loss. I can only imagine the pain of those who lost their parent, sibling, relative or child in last week’s shocking events in Atlanta.  To be honest, I struggled to find a way to adequately convey my allyship, my support for our students, their families and members of our community who are in pain.  Many of our families and students have for years suffered in silence through racist tropes, and microaggressions.  And in the midst of despair, I turned to my faith and experience to help me convey my thoughts.

You can’t detach and distance yourself from problems that affect other people in your community.
- Rev. Dr. Howard-John Wesley


In hearing this quote, I am reminded that we share the problems in our community. Your pain is our school district’s pain.  If you and your family are hurting, then so are we.  We are family.  We are connected through our humanity, and our desire to see everyone live up to their fullest potential.  Our (MVWSD’s) collective heart goes out to all our students, teachers, staff, families and community members of Asian descent, who are in pain right now.  We stand with you.  Our District stands with you.  The Board of Trustees stands with you.  We are committed to developing ways to address your concerns; whether it is through action, conversation or just allowing you to grieve, we are here for you.  More importantly, know that MVWSD unequivocally condemns hate in any form towards any of our students, staff, families or community members.

Last week, our Board of Trustees passed Resolution 01-031821 (click here to view) that denounces hate crimes and bigotry targeting Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.  Our next step is to carry this charge through the work of our district’s Equity Coach.  Mrs. Henderson will not only moderate another “The Talk” - discussing Anti-Asian racism in our community, but also will continue to provide anti bias professional development for our staff. Our initiatives in the new Strategic Plan 2027 will continue and amplify the work of rooting out systemic bias within our organization and creating a truly inclusive educational community.

Under the leadership of our Board, I promise that we will continue to strive for a more perfect union.  My commitment to you is the same as last summer; an unapologetic approach to creating a more inclusive school system that honors your voice, and calls for us to act against anything that fuels the fire of hate and oppression.  We will continue to find ways to help us see each other for who we are, and appreciate the beautiful Mountain View meliu that embodies diversity of race, creed, thought, and socio-economic status.
 
Ayindé Rudolph, Ed.D.
Superintendent
 
 
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