A Brief Statement on Anti-Asian and Pacific Islander Racism

On Tuesday, March 23, 2021, Dr. Mark Yarbrough, DTS President, read the following statement in chapel:

Like you, my heart is heavy today. The recent violence—including yesterday’s tragedy in Colorado—is horrific. Acts of violence and racism continue in our country.

Specifically, in recent weeks there has been a noted rise in racism and violence against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders across our country and around the world. We recognize that at times, there has been a tragic history of anti-Asian sentiment in the United States. Any form of racism against any people is tragic and grievous. Unfortunately, the current COVID-19 pandemic has increased that sentiment.

Dallas Theological Seminary is deeply saddened and concerned by both the historic and now increasing racist rhetoric toward Asian communities and any particular people. Make no mistake, there is zero place for racism of any sort in the Christian community. It is a sin against God, for we are all made in His image no matter the color of our skin or the origin of our ancestry.

I want to say it again. DTS unequivocally condemns the sin of racism in all of its forms, including violent hate crimes, racist rhetoric, stereotypes, and discrimination. We stand with our Asian brothers and sisters, affirm their dignity, and commit to their care as full image-bearers loved by God.

As it specifically applies to DTS, we are thrilled to have sisters and brothers of Asian and Pacific Island descent. We are thrilled to have a Chinese program. To my Asian and Pacific Island brothers and sisters, DTS is simply a better place because of your presence. We are elated to have Asian and Pacific Island alumni serving all over the world. We want you to know that we love you. We care for you. And we stand in solidarity with you under the banner of Jesus Christ, in whom we are all one.