Dear IMS Community, 

It is with sadness and concern that we write yet another letter to acknowledge and address the ongoing acts of racism, bigotry, and violence that have occurred in our country and across the world. Hate crimes and xenophobia directed toward Asian-Americans have increased throughout the pandemic, and we know that these attacks have left members of the Asian community feeling shaken, vulnerable, and threatened. Indian Mountain School stands unequivocally in solidarity with all of our Asian, Asian-American, and Pacific Islander community members. 

In the past several months, violent actions toward the Asian community — including the recent murders in Atlanta, Georgia — are a painful reminder of the impact of words and messages in politics, the media, pop culture, and our daily conversations. We condemn any language or actions that undermine the humanity, dignity, safety, or sense of belonging of anyone. In the past year, we have shared information about our commitment to creating a safe space in which each member of our community is seen, heard, valued, and celebrated. We must be proactive in our efforts to dismantle systemic racism and violence and speak out against language and actions that perpetuate this damage. 

Over the next several days, we will create space and time for our community to talk, process, and reflect during Community Time and advisory. The social-emotional wellness of our students is one of our most important priorities because we know that when students feel respected, cared for, and safe, they have the confidence to learn and be their full, authentic selves as active members of their communities. We are mindful, as always, of the ages and developmental stages of our students, and will consider students’ access to information and their needs for additional support. 

As always, if you have any concerns about your child, please be in touch with the school. Please do not hesitate to contact us, your child’s advisor, our health team, or other faculty and administrators. Our counseling team is also always available for any student wishing to speak with an adult on campus. Additionally, we have included some resources that may help you navigate difficult conversations with your children. Planning is underway for future forums that will allow community members to process and further discuss similar topics and issues. Please stay tuned for more information. 

With warmth and care, 

Jody Reilly Soja
Head of School

Shantel Hanniford
Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
9th Grade History Teacher and Dean

Resources:

Discussing Hate and Violence with Children: A Resource from the Anti-Defamation League

How Parents Can Support Kids Through (and beyond) the Latest Wave of Anti-Asian American Violence: A Resource from CNN

How To Talk To Kids About Anti-Asian Racism: A Resource from Asian American Christian Collaborative

AntiRacism Resources To Support Asian American, pacific Islander Community: A Resource from NBC News

Responding To Anti-Asian Violence and The Georgia Shootings: A Resource from Learning for Justice