One year ago on March 16, 2021, six Asian-Americans were killed in Atlanta, Georgia, an event that many see as a result of long-lasting anti-Asian bias in the U.S. Because of its origin in Wuhan, China, the emergence of COVID-19 amplified this bias that has been prevalent in the country for centuries, dating back to centuries ago with legislation including the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 and other discriminatory laws.

These gunshots were not just heard in Atlanta, but around the world. Taking part in the rise of national protests, on March 26, 2021, the Brookline community gathered together in a vigil honoring those who lost their lives only ten days prior. Students and staff shared their experiences living in a country infiltrated by Asian hate and violence while sharing feelings of frustration, fear, strength and power.

A year later, the fight against Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI)-targeted hate and violence continues as hate crimes prevail across the nation. Just two months ago, an Asian-American woman was pushed in front of a moving train in New York City.

In response to the continuation of hateful violence, this past year saw the enactment of legislation intending to advocate for change such as the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act, which U.S. President Joe Biden signed in May 2021, making reporting of hate crimes more accessible and including plans for programs to prevent and respond to hate crimes.

Yet, the fight is far from over. As communities around the world continue to mourn these tragedies, it remains important to be aware of hate towards AAPI people and to be extra supportive of those directly impacted by these devastating acts of senseless violence.

Resources:
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