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In response to the tragic shootings in Monterey Park and Half Moon Bay, New American Leaders issued the following statement:

“We are heartbroken by the news of yet another mass shooting in Half Moon Bay, a California town home to one of the state’s oldest agricultural and migrant worker communities. It is the third mass shooting in California within three days and the 39th mass shooting in the United States so far in 2023. The victims included New Americans from both Chinese and Latino communities. This tragedy happened less than 48 hours after the massacre that devastated a vibrant and thriving Asian American community in Monterey Park.

We stand in solidarity with the people of Monterey Park and Half Moon Bay, as well as AAPI communities across the country. These tragedies and the rise of anti-Asian violence have sadly become far too common in recent years. At a time when our communities should be celebrating the new year, we find ourselves once again grieving the loss of loved ones in a disturbingly common pattern of pain and fear.

To the strong and resilient Asian American community—especially the families and friends of the Monterey Park and Half Moon Bay victims—know that you aren’t alone in your pain, fears, anger, or desire for action. We are committed to helping you heal from the collective trauma and wounds of hate. Yet even as we grieve, we are united in our demands for change.

Our elected officials must act now to address the hate-fueled violence and stricter gun laws as a means to protect our communities from senseless acts of gun violence. Because if not now, when? When is enough, enough?”