Dear KWiSE Community,

The recent horrific violence and hate crimes against Asians, Asian Americans, and Pacific Islanders have led to an increase in the fears of the Asian community around our nation. The mass shooting on Tuesday, March 16 in Atlanta, in which six of the eight people killed were Asian American women, serves as a horrific reminder of the xenophobia and misogyny rooted in our community and our nation. KWiSE sends our deepest condolences to the victims and their families.

While anti-Asian attitudes are not new, the escalation of attacks and expressions of hate and intolerance since the beginning of the pandemic have been deeply concerning. Asians, Asian Americans, and Pacific Islanders have been the targets of an alarming increase in hate incidents, from verbal slurs and harassment to physical violence.

This surge in violence comes at a time of heightened tension in America. There is no place for violence of any kind, racism, or racial prejudice. On behalf of KWiSE, we condemn racism and hate, and we strive to promote equity, inclusion, and diversity. We stand with our community to help create a more equitable, safe, and thriving community for everyone.

Let us stand together in solidarity, speak out and take action to support of the Asian members of our community.

Sincerely,

Jay Kim
President of KWiSE