Media Alert: Feb 16 Honoring Victims of Anti-Asian Violence

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Honoring Victims of Anti-Asian Violence”

What: A multicultural street tribute and rally to honor the victims of the most recent rash of attacks against Asians.

When: Wednesday, February 16, 2022 at 6pm to 8pm

Where: Southwest corner of: Kenmore Ave. and 6th St. Koreatown, LA

Visual opportunities: Candlelight ceremony where photos of recent victims are held by people across the sidewalk. – Performers and signing of giant letter to ask for more assistance for victims and long term solutions.

Who: Sponsors, Neighborhood Safety Companions, Progressive Asian Network for Action, Korean Youth & Community Center, Ktown for all, Koreatown Immigrant Workers Alliance, API-RISE.

Contact: (626) 999-7528 -24/7
email: [email protected]
email: [email protected]

Message:

Asian Americans are reeling from the horrific slayings of Christina Yuna Lee, and the killing of Seanna Widjaja, stabbed at a 7-11 50 feet from the location of this vigil. These tragedies occurred around the 1 year anniversaries of the attack and death of 84-year-old Vicha Ratanapakdee, and the racist beating of Denny Kim in Koreatown.

In this past year, hate incidents have increased 390% nationally, and 179% in Los Angeles County.

Horrific footage of assailants, often mentally ill African American men, are frequently shown on the news. However, these videos leave out the bigger picture: the majority of attacks against Asians are by white people. (per Dr. Janelle Wong). We are sending a message that we need to all races to unite to fight “racism and white supremacy” not blame all white people or least of all destitute homeless folks who happen to be Black.

On Black History month, we send a message of solidarity among Asians and African Americans to stand together against racist stereotypes, poverty, destitution, lack of mental health services, anti-China bashing, and COVID scapegoating that spikes these attacks.

Featuring emerging performers:

Mel Taevin, Indie Rock artist and Korean adoptee activist

Andre Henry, award winning performer, writer

filed under: Press