AORN Message on Recent Violent Attacks on Asian Americans
Published: 3/19/2021
Dear perioperative community and AORN staff:
In consideration of recent violent attacks on Asian Americans, part of a surge in abuse since the start of the pandemic a year ago, AORN would like to remind you of our views on racism and discrimination.
Advocates and activists say these are hate crimes, and often linked to rhetoric that blames Asian people for the spread of Covid-19. Whatever the origin of thought, AORN remains committed to zero tolerance for any racist acts and discrimination. Further, we believe we are all accountable to our greater community to welcome all cultures, races, and religions that may be different from our own to a society that values our diverse population.
One of the barriers to reducing injustice is how some people justify and rationalize it while others sit by because they feel they are not directly affected. As it is AORN’s belief that education is at the root of understanding and, ultimately acceptance, you may want to visit these websites to learn about recent actions and goals of organizations whose missions are to support the Asian American Pacific Islanders (AAPI).
We encourage our staff and members to continually strive to learn and grow. It is our hope that the connections provided below might support greater understanding and acceptance.
- “Stop AAPI Hate”. To learn more about this organization and its mission, you can visit their website. You can also find their most recent report on types of discrimination and recent crimes.
- Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund: a national organization, founded in 1974, working to protect and promote civil rights for Asian-Americans.
- #HATEISAVIRUS: an initiative and community raising awareness on anti-Asian racism and supporting Asian-owned businesses.
To our Asian American members, we wish you peace and safety and we want you to know that your colleagues, friends and AORN stand together in support of the equal rights and consideration you so justly deserve.
Sincerely,
David A. Wyatt, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, CNOR
President
Linda Groah, MSN, RN, CNOR, NEA-BC, FAAN
CEO/Executive Director
