March 18, 2021

We strongly condemn violence against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI), especially in the wake of the disturbing increase in hate incidents that the community has reported. The recent attacks nationwide and murders in Atlanta underscore the bigotry that has been directed towards the AAPI community for far too long, and it is unacceptable.

Racism, white supremacy, xenophobia, colorism, and misogyny have all been weaponized against AAPI people by individuals and institutions alike, all while blatant anti-Asian rhetoric throughout the COVID-19 pandemic has tacitly given cover to anti-Asian and anti-immigrant sentiment. This has only exacerbated the number of anti-AAPI hate incidents, which have increased by more than 1,000 in the past year alone (source: Stop AAPI Hate National Report). 

We stand with our partner organizations, community groups, friends, family, and individuals across the country who have long been dedicated to uplifting, protecting, and advancing justice for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. We echo their calls to invest directly in community services and enact restorative justice measures to put an end to this abhorrent violence. 

We also urge you to follow the work of these organizations and individual activists, and take advantage of the many ways you can support them with donations, if you are able, as well as direct actions they have initiated. Here is a growing list of organizations you can learn from, groups and individuals you can support financially, and resources where you can find assistance and aid in turn.  

The Center