As a hospital and health system, it is our daily work and privilege to be a safe haven for people who are hurting, regardless of race, gender identity, gender expression, sexuality, religion, immigration status, country of origin, age or other factors. We provide a place where all people can heal without fear of discrimination or harassment.
The horrific shootings last week in Atlanta, which claimed eight lives - six of whom were women of Asian descent - as well as the violent assaults against Asians in cities across the country, all serve as a call to action, as individuals and as a nation, to stand united against hate, discrimination and violence.
We must do more. Together, we can create equity, inclusion and accountability. We have started on this journey at Salem Health and I want to thank the hundreds of you who have participated in honing our commitment statement to these principles and to broadening our conversation concerning bias, stereotypes and discrimination. Countries including the U.S. have seen a steep rise in discrimination and violence against members of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Xenophobic language and stereotypical rhetoric associated with the virus only fuels further discrimination and hate crimes against Asian Americans. We denounce all actions or language that perpetuate hate, racism or violence. This has no place in our community and will not be tolerated.
We grieve alongside the Asian American community and our hearts go out to those families grappling with immense pain and loss. To our own employees and patients in the Asian and Pacific Islander communities, we stand together with you and we remain committed to a world where of greater justice and hope for all, starting in our workplace.