Statement on Anti-Asian Hate

My statement on attacks against the Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. I encourage everyone to stand up for members of the AAPI community. 

The violence, hate and xenophobia being waged against the Asian, Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community in response to the COVID-19 Pandemic is appalling. Violence and discrimination against any ethnic group is wrong and unacceptable.

We must collectively do the right thing and rise above the hate, vitriol and attacks and stand up for those in the AAPI community. It takes all of us to cultivate a culture where love, respect, and kindness are exemplified. We cannot heal and unite as a nation if innocent people are being attacked simply for who they are.

Remembering Osaze Osagie

Today marks the second anniversary of the death of Osaze Osagie, who was shot by police who were serving a mental health warrant. The loss not only hurt a family but a community. Never should a mental health crisis have to end in death. The tragedy of March 20, 2019 has opened many doors and raised awareness on what we can do to better approach mental health crises while addressing racial justice issues in our community. We must never forget where we came from and continue to push forward in promoting a community that seeks reconciliation, unity and equality.