Editor's Note from the President:
I recognize that incorrectly identifying the religion of the student who was attacked caused real harm. I have corrected the mistake in this version posted online, and UPD Chief Michael Carroll sent an apology and correction as well.
Sikh identity, one of many in the South Asian diaspora that includes more than two billion people, is distinct, deeply meaningful, and too often misunderstood. Failing to acknowledge it accurately, especially in the context of violence, can feel dismissive and painful, and I am sincerely sorry for that impact. I also could have better emphasized that crime, particularly those driven by hate and targeting identity, affects many members of our community, and the fear, anger, and insecurity it causes are not limited to one group.
As a community, we will work to provide the support and resources that you need as we work to make our campus a safer, more secure place for everyone. I also thank the students and community members who have reached out to me about the error to share their thoughts and experiences.