To our community,
Amid a surge in violence toward Asian-American and Pacific Islander communities in New York and across the country, Extreme Kids & Crew stands in solidarity with the victims, survivors, and neighbors who are again experiencing the trauma and fear endemic to racism.
These heartbreaking attacks, like Tuesday night’s in Atlanta, may be spurred by xenophobic responses to the COVID-19 pandemic, but they are just the latest chapter in our country’s long history of racism and discrimination against Asian-Americans. This is a wake up call that demands we be present in the fight against white supremacy and advocate for greater allyship at home, in the workplace, and in our communities.
Since New York City shut down last March, there have been hundreds of reported incidents of violence against Asian-American New Yorkers, and 76% of Asian-Americans across the country have reported feeling worried about experiencing hate crime, harassment, or discrimination because of COVID-19. Asian-American elders, already disproportionately impacted by the virus, are particularly vulnerable to attacks.
We recognize how important it is to build community-centered support networks grounded in anti-racist practices in order to begin the process of healing. Violence against any of us is felt by all of us, and it’s our responsibility to reimagine forms of public safety that center mutualism, accountability, and restorative justice.
Here are some actions you can take to join the fight against this crisis:
Report hate crimes where you see them. Inaccurate reporting, which can happen due to language barriers and fears over immigration status, can lead to misrepresentations of the reality of anti-Asian violence. Learn more >>
Donate to and amplify the work of Asian-American-led community groups and legal defense funds. Learn more >>
Educate yourself about this recent rise in violence — and America’s long history of anti-Asian violence enacted through both governmental policy and individual action.
Participate in community-based safety tactics. For example, volunteer for SafeWalks NYC to help escort community members who feel unsafe to and from subway stations.
Places you can donate to:
National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum
CAAAV Organizing Asian Communities
Butterfly (Asian and Migrant Sex Workers Support Network)
More resources from Asian-American community groups:
Safety Tips for Those Experiencing or Witnessing Hate
Asian American Federation’s Anti-Hate Safety Resources
It's on all of us to #StopAsianHate. Join us.
Sincerely,
Caitlin and The Crew