Published May 14, 2022
To the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences Community,
Yesterday afternoon our Buffalo community was shattered by gun violence.
The news of yesterday’s events at Tops Friendly Markets brings sadness and anger to our hearts. We join President Tripathi in offering our thoughts and prayers to the ten people who lost their lives along with their grieving families, all those who were injured, and all those who were traumatized.
We have seen time and again, across the country, how hatred and bigotry has led to loss of life and the accompanying emotional trauma to families and communities. The fact that this level of hatred has now visited the “City of Good Neighbors” is difficult to process and impossible to understand. It is a reminder to us all that there is much work to be done.
As part of the Jacobs School, this happened in our own backyard. We are part of this Buffalo community - these are our neighbors, our patients, our friends, and co-workers. As current and future scientists, healthcare workers, and members of the community, it is our duty to fight the hatred and falsehoods that indoctrinate others and give them false purpose to commit such acts. Racism, bigotry, and hatred must not be allowed to stand. We must raise our voices as one and make clear, by our words and by our actions, that hate has no place here.
This tragedy has shocked us all. In the coming days, we encourage our students, post doctorates, residents, faculty, and staff who have been affected by today’s events to reach out for support. Services are readily available to you; they are free, voluntary, and confidential. Please reach out if you are in need of help.
Contact information for Student Counseling Services can be found at https://medicine.buffalo.edu/offices/ome/current/advising/counseling.html
Residents and Fellows can connect with the Resident Support Team at (716) 835-1246 or find other resources at https://medicine.buffalo.edu/offices/gme/residents/resident-well-being.html. Others may reach out to University Counseling Services at 716-645-2720.
Faculty and staff may reach out to the Employee Assistance Program for resources. We believe that light can overcome darkness, love can overcome hate - but it takes time, and it takes work. The Jacobs School is committed to this work. Together we remain Buffalo strong, united as a community to support each other and those most affected by this violence.
Sincerely,
Allison Brashear, MD, MBA
Vice President for Health Sciences and
Dean, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences
University at Buffalo