Solidarity Statement

Vanderbilt’s Center for Student Wellbeing strongly condemns and rejects acts of racism, police brutality, xenophobia, homophobia, transphobia, sexism, ableism, classism, discrimination against Indigenous peoples, and religious discrimination. We condemn white supremacy and all systems of oppression.

The Student Care Network recognizes that our Black students are experiencing systemic racism and violence. We recognize that our Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander students are also experiencing discrimination, violence, and prejudice that has been exacerbated by COVID-19. We recognize the intentional and longstanding discrimination of Indigenous peoples. We recognize that students of marginalized identities have been and continue to experience anguish and harm from conscious and unconscious bias. Direct and indirect exposure to violence and bias can be troubling, concerning, and traumatizing, and result in many emotional reactions.

We stand in solidarity with you, we are here for you, and we recognize your need for support and affirmation. As the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Stated, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere”. We acknowledge that harm experienced by any community member is damaging to our collective community.

The Student Care Network is committed to the promotion of healing and holistic wellbeing. Our staff is committed to an ongoing dialogue that provides us with opportunities to grow in the context of our own cultural identity development.

If you or someone you know is in need of support or care, the Student Care Network offers resources for students that can help. We invite students to utilize the remote UCC Drop-in Consultation Hours, with hours specifically held for our Black students on Mondays between 2PM-4PM, LGBTQIA2S+-identifying students on Tuesdays between 2PM-4PM, and International students on Fridays between 1PM-2PM, and explore available cultural and identity resources. Students can also call the UCC at (615) 322-2571 for support during urgent care hours 10AM through 4PM weekdays.

We are here for you. Your emotions are valid. You are not alone.