May is Asian Pacific Islander (API) Heritage Month and while we will take the opportunity to celebrate and honor our API communities, the YMCA is also hosting a national townhall to acknowledge and address the rise in anti-Asian hate crimes and racism across the nation. Since 2020, there have been 3,000 reports of verbal harassment, violence, and murder towards our fellow API sisters and brothers. API-targeted hate crimes have increased by nearly 170 percent over the past year, despite overall hate crimes decreasing during the pandemic.
Our LA Y was instrumental in the event's planning and production of this month's recent Virtual Town Hall: Advocacy, Allyship & Action to Combat Anti-Asian Hate. Phenomenal guests included Senator Tammy Duckworth, Congressman Ted Lieu, BD Wong, Connie Chung Joe (AAAJ-LA) and Connie Lim “Milck”. The Town Hall dove deep into a crucial discussion unpacking the history of anti-Asian racism, white supremacy and how we can all come together to advocate for change.
Our YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles has always championed inclusion and diversity. We believe in order to strengthen community, action must be taken to ensure there is equity for all. We will continue to support and stand with all Asian Pacific Islanders to bring about a better future together.
