Our Response to Series of Atlanta Shootings that Killed Eight People, Including Six Asian American Women
We are horrified by the acts of terror in Atlanta against Asian American massage workers and the ongoing pattern of violence targeting the most vulnerable in the Asian American community -- first elders, those suffering from mental health challenges, and now working women. That vulnerability has been exacerbated by the pandemic and by the irresponsible statements of political leaders.
This is an all too familiar pattern that we continue to witness over and over again -- unchecked violence being perpetrated against Black and Brown communities, women and the transgender community. The recent rise in anti-Asian violence is a sad reminder that every day is a fight against hatred and a struggle against the lethal manifestations of white supremacy.
We remain steadfast in our commitment to push for the transformations that our society needs to root out the harms of systemic racism that are compounded by perpetual criminalization of communities of color and decades of disinvestment.
It’s up to all of us to move from simply reaffirming our commitment to taking concrete actions to uproot anti-Asian hate. We must organize and unite across our differences and fight back against the forces that seek to divide us. If we do, not only will our ideas be more inclusive and more creative, they will also ultimately be stronger and more enduring.
In light of yesterday’s tragic events, please consider donating to Asian Americans Advancing Justice, Atlanta and consider following them on Twitter and Instagram for more ways to support Atlanta’s Asian American community at this moment. Locally, the Oakland Chinatown Coalition is supporting individuals and families impacted by the recent crime and assaults that have occurred in the Chinatown community. You can donate here.
The only way to survive this tragic chapter in our communities is to take care of one another through compassion and love in action.
Debra Gore-Mann is the President and CEO of The Greenlining Institute.
