We are horrified and saddened by the violence that occurred in Atlanta yesterday. Today, we grieve for the eight people (six of whom were Asian women) murdered in this act of violence. While we wait to learn more about who these women were, we honor their lives and hope for comfort for their families and community.

This brutal attack is another in a long string of violence perpetrated against Asian people this year, when instances of violence against Asian people are up 150% (PDF) over the past year. Sixty-eight percent of these instances are violence against Asian women.

We must protect our Asian neighbors and continue to do everything we can to stand against hate and violence, where every it may be. At the Y, we believe in, and stand for, community. When our community hurts, we all hurt. When our brothers and sisters grieve, we all grieve. We strive to build a world filled with affirmation and empathy, grounded in unity and hope, and rooted in equity, justice, and peace.

We stand with all Asian people, and we are here to support our Asian colleagues who are a vital part of our Y family. Our country and our organization are better because of our shared spirit and strength, and collective contributions to our community.

Violence against Asian people deserves our nation’s full attention and action. The Y works every day in communities across the country to create understanding among people of diverse backgrounds and perspectives and to ensure all people, no matter who they are or where they come from, can reach their full potential with dignity and respect.

In a joint statement made last evening, Mayor Durkan and Chief of Police Diaz announced additional support for Asian communities in Seattle, and they encouraged anyone experiencing or witnessing incidents of hate to dial 911. Translation services are available. To read their full statement, visit their website.

We encourage you to demonstrate equity-minded and healing-centered compassion and leadership during these trying times. Thank you for standing together against hate and violence in all its forms wherever it may be and for keeping hope alive for each other’s sake.

In community and solidarity,
Loria B. Yeadon, President/CEO