Official statement from CSA (via World Journal):
"We, the students of Chinese Students Association (CSA) of Cal U, are saddened and angered by the recent news that Professor David X has been the target of an ongoing federal investigation. We are deeply disappointed by the FBI’s conduct of continuing to press charges under “The China Initiative” despite finding NO evidence of espionage but rather based solely on his Chinese identity. As a result, his basic human rights were invaded, his reputation ruined, and his family left hurting. The China Initiative is a threat to American justice and democracy. The way in which Asian Americans and Asian immigrants are racially profiled, discriminated, and criminalized is part of a much larger anti-Asian discourse and sentiment that deprives Asian Americans and internationals of their civil liberties. As we collectively grieve and respond to these recent event and tragedies - from Laura’s disappearance, to the death of Shaoxiong Zheng, from anti-Asian rhetoric surrounding covid-19 to espionage- we must invest in long-term solutions that promote safety, trust, and inclusivity in the community. "It is important, now more than ever, that we focus on improving the treatment and experience of Asian internationals and work to combat the anti-Chinese and anti-Asian biases within the community. We hope that part of the Laura foundation funds could go towards supporting the experience of Chinese students studying abroad and used in a way that would make Laura proud, by establishing the Asian Center for Excellence (ACE), a community center and career hub dedicated to help Asian international students navigate and excel through their professional journeys. We must remind ourselves that Laura was an international student herself and someone who treasured her Chinese heritage. The Chinese community at CAL U have been suffering, and the least we can do to honor Laura, in light of recent events, is help and support the community with which she identified so strongly. We ask all to stand in solidarity with members of our community who are hurt by anti-Asian racism, xenophobia, prejudice, and bias. If you echo our sentiments, please reach out to us so we can work together to identify effective actionable ways to address these issues. As always, CSA of Cal U is always open to listening to concerns and feedback from our community. Feel free to reach out to us at csaofcalu@gmail.com or anonymously at https://forms.gle/66BfkUKNVuv2e8zA9."
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