Our intersectional LGBTQIA community requires that we speak up and out when we understand harm is happening against those in our community. The documented and experienced increase in anti-Asian violence must stop—in this country and across the globe.
“The truth is that those who are living at the intersection of being LGBTQ, Asian American, and an immigrant while confronting a surge in anti-Asian hate and violence are facing a multi-fronted battle to live their lives openly and safely in this country.
Yet, while many of us hold multiple identities that often compound our experiences, it also means we can and must create community, build allyship and organize coalitions in response to all forms of discrimination and racism.
If American history has taught us anything, it is that racism and discrimination are not new. But throughout the course of history, there have been those who fought for justice who taught us that movements for equality are stronger and more powerful when we include all of us.”1
We must encourage community and political leaders to speak up and denounce these violent acts, and officials need to ensure those who carry out criminal offenses are held to account. We must push federal and local agencies to do more work within and across communities to combat racism.
We must make intentional steps to engender a society where our individual identities are respected, where we do not live in fear.
