Last night, three Asian-owned businesses in the Atlanta area were the target of a brutal hate crime, leaving eight people dead. In response to this horrific act, Sara Le Brusq, Interim President of New American Leaders, shared the following statement:
“Our hearts are broken for the families and communities of the eight people who were killed in this senseless act of hate. We send our sympathy and strength to all who are impacted by this horrific attack, especially to the Asian American and Pacific Islander community in Georgia.
“Yet even as we grieve, we recognize that—tragically—this attack is not surprising. The reality is that members of the AAPI community have been the targets of increasing hate since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The previous administration’s lies stoked long standing hate and fear, sparking a disturbing rise in anti-Asian sentiment and violence. This racism, bigotry and disinformation led to this attack in Georgia and thousands of other hate crimes across the country. As a community of New Americans and BIPOC leaders, we cannot be silent and let this continue.
“Our movement is united against hate and stands in solidarity with our Asian American and Pacific Islander brothers and sisters. We are committed to breaking down systemic white supremacy and helping our country and communities heal from the wounds of hate; building a more inclusive, stronger country and democracy.”