Statement from President Adams Against Violent Hate Crimes and Racist Individuals Disrupting Zoom Events

February 25, 2021

“Recent violent hate crimes against members of the Asian American and Jewish communities in Queens, and incidents of racist individuals posting xenophobic, white supremacist messages and images on CUNY Zoom diversity events, are disturbing, horrific, and entirely unacceptable.

LaGuardia Community College most firmly denounces these violent attacks on our community members. With our student population being among the most diverse nationwide and as we are reminded by our honoring Black History Month, we have an obligation and a moral duty to stand firmly against these actions of hostility and division.

Seeking counseling for feelings of anxiety, depression, or anger is brave. Helping a stranger who has been verbally or physically attacked is heroic. Asking for help when feeling overwhelmed is courageous. All are much more honorable than the cowardly and deplorable crimes discussed here.

Please join me in speaking out against hate and division.”

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LaGuardia Community College (LAGCC), located in Long Island City, Queens, educates thousands of New Yorkers annually through degree, certificate, and continuing education programs . LaGuardia is a national voice on behalf of community colleges, where half of all U.S. college students study. Part of the City University of New York (CUNY), the College reflects the legacy of our namesake, Fiorello H. LaGuardia, the former NYC mayor beloved for his championing the underserved. Since our doors opened in 1971, our programs regularly become national models for pushing boundaries to give people of all backgrounds access to a high quality, affordable college education.

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