COVID-19 and Bias

As the coronavirus disease continues its global spread, there has been an increase in acts of bias and discrimination against Chinese, Chinese-American, and other individuals of Asian descent, both in our nation and abroad. During times of stress and anxiety, implicit biases we hold may come to the surface and fear inhibits our ability to process facts. However, there is never a time when acts of hate, bias, or discrimination based upon race, ethnicity, or other social identity will be condoned by St. John’s. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) maintain a COVID-19 webpage dedicated to “Reducing Stigma,” which can be accessed by clicking here. The CDC notes that people of Asian descent are no more likely to contract COVID-19 than any other Americans. As we pay close attention to the physical acts we can take to keep each other safe during this time, like frequent handwashing, we must remain equally vigilant about safeguarding the physical, emotional, and mental safety of all members of our community.

If you have experienced bias or discrimination, whether COVID-19 related or otherwise:

For nonemergency situations, any member of the University community can use the online reporting form available at www.stjohns.edu/reportbias. Though you can complete this form anonymously, be sure to include as much information as possible so that the University can respond.

Bias reports can also be made to the Office of Human Resources, Equal Opportunity and Compliance, by calling 718-990-1865 (press 4).

In the event of an emergency, including but not limited to situations involving violence or threats of violence, please call 911 or the Department of Public Safety.

If you are struggling with anxiety as a result of COVID-19:

• We encourage students to contact Student Health Services (718-990-6360, select option 4) or the Center for Counseling and Consultation (Queens, 718-990-6384; Staten Island, 718-390-4451) or the St. John’s University Mental Health Helpline (718-990-6352). 
   
• Employees should reach out to Corporate Counseling Services (CCA), our external assistance provider. CCA provides services to all University employees and their household or family members. CCA maintains a 24-hour helpline: 800-833-8707. Professional consultants are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to offer support and resources, simply by calling the confidential helpline. Calls are always answered by a licensed/certified mental health professional who assesses needs, responds competently to emergency situations, and promptly directs callers to the appropriate expert area(s). To meet with a counselor in person, locally or nationwide, employees can call the helpline to schedule an appointment.

As stated in the University’s Inclusivity Statement, a dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion is at the heart of our mission. In challenging times, we must always return to our values.

Please take good care of yourselves and one another.

Nada M. Llewellyn, Esq.
Associate Vice President for Human Resources, Chief Diversity Officer, and Deputy General Counsel