Grief, Resolve, and Support After Attacks on Asian American Women in New York City

 

The Council of Korean Americans (CKA) extends its heartfelt sympathies to the families of Michelle Go and Christina Yuna Lee, two Asian American women murdered in New York City over the past month. These tragic deaths have amplified the fears felt by many Asian Americans throughout New York and across the country.

“These horrific killings are an awful reminder that Asian American women continue to be targeted for senseless, violent crimes,” said CKA Board Chair Michelle Rhyu. “We must resist being merely shocked and afraid. We must change those endemic attitudes toward Asian Americans that make us targets. We must ask our colleagues, friends, and allies to see us as individuals and to stand with us against racism and the propagation of insidious stereotypes. And we must support each other as we move through this darkness, toward the light.”

While investigators have not alleged an anti-Asian motivation in these cases, we cannot ignore the impact of stereotypes about Asian American women, racial, and gender bias.

CKA remains committed to creating spaces and promoting conversations where Korean American and Asian American women can connect and share authentically. Our hope is to provide a community where everyone feels safe, seen, and validated. We will continue to work with our members and partners to promote the cultural and systemic change necessary to ensure that all people feel safe.

To provide a safe space for dialogue and in remembrance of the one-year anniversary of the Atlanta shooting, CKA’s women affinity group will be hosting a March 15th forum, entitled “A Conversation about Hope and Healing for Korean American Women Amid Anti-Asian Racism” (4:00 PM PT / 7:00 PM ET). Asian American women at any stage of life are invited to join this online gathering for sharing and healing. Please click here to register.

 

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The Council of Korean Americans is a national nonprofit organization. Our mission is to advance the national voice, interest, and influence of the Korean American community through education, collaboration, and leadership development.

 

For more information, contact:

Ruth Song
Director of Operations & Programming
media@councilka.org
202-660-0900