Open Letter: From the United States to India
The recent attacks on several individuals from India, including two engineers, Srinivas Kuchibhotla and Alok Madasani, which left Srinivas dead, has shocked not only the nation of India, but people across the United States. Those of us at U.S. schools, colleges and universities, who work with students and colleagues from India, are horrified and sickened by these acts of violence. We mourn that the life and bright future of Srinivas Kuchibhotla was extinguished by the hate and ignorance of one man. There is another part to this story, however: Ian Grillot, the 24 year-old American who willingly placed himself in harm’s way and took three bullets attempting to save the lives of two strangers. This part is important not only because of Grillot’s incredible bravery in the face of evil, but because his understanding of the value of all people, regardless of nationality or race, reflects the true nature of United States citizens; not the singular acts of hate by a tiny minority. The subsequent donations of over $735,000 in support of the victims’ families were a stunning testimony of that nature and a clear message that Americans will stand up to hate. Srinivas’s belief that “good things happen in America” is a belief shared by Americans and those who make America their home. The vast majority of people in the United States welcome the presence and contributions of immigrants, international professionals and students in their communities. Over the past month, that support has blossomed into powerful action across our nation. This action included protests against discrimination and visa bans, rallies to support immigrants and refugees, and written statements from university presidents and chancellors to our international students to let them know that all are welcome here. Elected officials at the state and local levels, as well as judges, have acted successfully to stop executive orders that could negatively impact international students and immigrants. We who send this letter of condolence and support to the families of Srinivas Kuchibhotla and Alok Madasani work with Indian and other international students and colleagues. We visit India; we get to know and care about your students and families. Their success is our success; their wellbeing is a responsibility we feel privileged to undertake. We believe passionately in the value of international education as a bridge to peace and antidote to hate. We see this on a daily basis as we observe American, Indians and other international students interact. With this mutual interaction, fear and negative stereotypes break down, cultural exchange occurs, and understanding of our shared humanity results. We cannot bring back Srinivas Kuchibhotla; we cannot undo the injury to Alok Madasani and others, or the pain their families are experiencing. We can, however, attempt to honor these sons of India with the promise that we will redouble our efforts to highlight the beauty of Indian society in all of its diversity; to warmly welcome our Indian colleagues and students, and to make our institutions and communities places that are safe.
The United States is stronger, not weaker, because of the creativity, culture and contributions of our immigrants and international students from India. We welcome you to the U.S. and ask that you not let hate win. To the families of Srinivas Kuchighotla and Alok Madsani and all who have been affected by these singular acts of hate: We stand with you in this hour of grief and mourning. We love you and we are proud that #YouBelongHere.
Sincerely,