KCHA statement denouncing acts of hate against Asians and Asian Americans

Over the last year, bias incidents and hate crimes targeting Asians and Asian Americans have escalated, both in number and in intensity. According to recent data by the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, hate crimes towards Asians in 2020 rose by over 51 percent from the previous year.

KCHA is deeply troubled by these disturbing acts and strongly condemns them. This spike of violence and hatred towards Asians and Asian Americans — particularly vulnerable elders — should alert us to the fact there is still so much to be done to make our country a more inclusive and just place for everyone. Like all American immigrant groups, the Asian immigration experience is rich and complex. Asian Americans play an integral part of U.S. history and current culture.

We call on all people to unite in denouncing these and all racially motivated acts of violence and hate. We stand in solidarity with our Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community and urge you to reject xenophobia, racism, and dehumanization. We must not allow stereotypes and bias to further fray the fabric of our community. We value diversity, equity and inclusion and want to live in a world where we lift each other up instead of tear each other down.

If you or a family member encounters any hate crime, please call your local law enforcement authorities to report these acts of violence. This information helps authorities to develop preventative measures and strategies to put an end to these senseless assaults on members of our community.