The evolving news about the novel Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) impacts us all.
The ambiguity and lack of knowledge of this novel virus has resulted in a myriad of responses including fear, anxiety, frustration, and stress. Specifically, when viruses and diseases are associated with originating in a specific geographical location or with a specific nationality or population there is often an increase in exclusionary responses. These responses can lead to harmful assumptions, biases (unconscious or implicit), social stigma, and/or hurtful behavior towards certain groups of people and places which negatively affects us all and our community.
During this time of “social distancing,” Indiana University’s Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering Office of Diversity and Inclusion (LODI) remains committed to fulfilling the Luddy School diversity statement via fostering an environment that includes individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, identities, abilities, experiences, interests, and perspectives and intentionally fosters appreciation of the values, skills and abilities of everyone. Therefore, while we are separated by distance we encourage all of our stakeholders to identify many ways to remain connected, supportive, and committed to building a welcoming, respectful, diverse, and inclusive academic environment that attracts high potential and innovative students, faculty, and staff as well as supports the growth of global diverse and inclusive leaders and citizens committed to inclusive excellence in our nation and world.
Although we are apart, remember “distance means so little when someone means so much.” Each of you matter and means so much to our Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering community. If you face any challenges or have any concerns about the learning or working environment please contact the Luddy School Office of Diversity and Inclusion at:
Lamara D. Warren, Ph.D.
Assistant Dean for Diversity and Inclusion
Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering
Indiana University
ldwarren@indiana.edu
(812) 856-0703 (Office)
(573) 999-4868 (Mobile)
Please visit coronavirus.iu.edu for up-to-date COVID-19 announcements from IU.
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