Editor,
We write in response to the recent incidents of physical and verbal harassment of people of Middle Eastern and South Asian descent. These ugly incidents have occurred near campus, and many have targeted UNM students.
Incidents reportedly include sexual harassment, physical aggression and verbal jeering followed by a cynical "namaste," and at least one armed robbery and beating. We urge the campus and Albuquerque community to not tolerate this kind of behavior, to report suspicious activity to the police, to support anyone they see victimized in this way, and to intervene personally when it is safe and appropriate to do so. We call on the UNM and Albuquerque authorities to urgently investigate these incidents and to vigorously prosecute those involved. If a response through the mental health system is required, it too should be pursued vigorously. We all must be part of building a local community that welcomes and values all its members and condemns this behavior.
Richard L. Wood
Associate professor of sociology and 42 faculty members from the UNM College of Arts & Sciences, School of Law, School of Medicine, School of Public Administration, College of Engineering, College of Pharmacy, School of Architecture and Planning, University College, and Anderson Schools of
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