Stigma and discrimination can occur when people associate an infectious disease, such as COVID-19, with a population or nationality, even though not everyone in that population or from that region is infected or at risk for the disease. Stigma hurts everyone by creating fear or anger toward ordinary people instead of the disease that is causing the problem. Stigma can also occur after a person has been released from quarantine, even though they are not considered a risk for spreading the virus to others.
Please remember that Missouri Western takes its dedication to inclusion and promotion of diversity seriously, and that this commitment contributes to transforming lives and demonstrates our values of freedom, respect and courage.
If you or someone you know has experienced discrimination, please contact Dr. Hannah Piechowski, associate vice president for student affairs & dean of students, hpiechowski@missouriwestern.edu.