Racist Text Messages

SMC VP of Student Affairs Michael Tuitasi / Santa Monica College

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SMC Colleagues:

It has come to the attention of colleagues in the Counseling Dept. that some Santa Monica College students have received racist text messages targeting many Black & Brown residents and students across the U.S., including in California. As a reminder, there is no room for racism, unlawful discrimination, and harassment at SMC. We unequivocally condemn the vile, racist rhetoric in these text messages and stand ready to support any students who have been targeted.

If you know of any student or colleague that has received this message, please have them contact me at Tuitasi_Michael@smc.edu.

In addition, if you know of any students who have been impacted, please encourage them to report it to their local law enforcement agency so the perpetrators may be brought to justice. Please remind them that SMC’s Center for Wellness & Wellbeing is here for them, and offers an 24/7 emotional support line: 800-691-6003. And, of course, our counselors—including in the Black Collegians Program/Umoja Community & other special programs—are here to support them as well.

In solidarity,
–Michael Tuitasi, VP, Student Affairs on behalf of Santa Monica College