March 7, 2020
Dear Students, Faculty and Staff:
In light of continuing concerns and some misconceptions about the novel
coronavirus (COVID‑19), we are reaching out to the WSU community. We
recognize that this is a particularly stressful time, but as such it is
even more important to pause before reacting in difficult situations.
We are aware of multiple bias behaviors exhibited towards members of
our international community, as well as our Asian American and Pacific
Islander community, in recent days. As an example, cultures worldwide
routinely wear face masks for protection during flu and cold season.
People from the U.S. are not as familiar with that practice and may
make assumptions and respond negatively. All community members, students,
faculty, and staff deserve respect as well as a safe environment for
learning, living, and working.
Should you experience or witness discrimination or harassment based
on race, color, or national or ethnic origin, you can report concerns
to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance and Investigation (CRCI).
