On the evening of Tuesday, June 14, 2022, an international doctoral student from China was brutally attacked by at least three young men as he was walking home along University Avenue. The attack was unprovoked, and was not motivated by robbery. On Saturday, June 18, the Madison Police Department arrested four suspects in the attacks, with an update here.
The university has posted this statement, and this article from the Daily Cardinal has more details. The incident is being taken very seriously by the Dean of Students Office, DDEEA, the University Police, and Madison Police. Further statements from the University are expected soon.
The Department of Geography is extremely dismayed by this violent and unprovoked act, which is one of several such incidents that have been recently perpetrated on and near campus. This attack also fits a broader pattern of racism and violence against Asian Americans and other people of Asian descent across the United States over the last few years. We strongly condemn all racist, violent and aggressive acts toward Asian Americans and international scholars from Asia, and urge the authorities and the university to take strong measures to prevent such senseless incidents.
Our department, our campus, and our community is enriched by our diversity of people and perspectives, and the Department of Geography is committed to making our campus and community a safe and welcoming home for all. We particularly support Asian Americans, our international scholars from Asia, and all people of Asian descent, who are such a strong and vital part of our community. We stand with you.
Jack Williams
Professor and Chair
Department of Geography
June 20, 2022