Statement Condemning Anti-Asian Violence

The UH Manoa Department of Asian Studies condemns the murders of Daoyou Feng, Hyun Jung Grant, Suncha Kim, Paul Andre Michels, Soon Chung Park, Xiaojie Tan, Delaina Ashley Yaun, and Yong Ae Yue. We express our deepest sympathy to their loved ones and communities in the wake of this tragedy.

Asians and Asian Americans in the US have long been subjected to racialized, gendered, and sexualized violence. This history in all of its forms has contributed cumulatively to the 150% increase in anti-Asian hate crimes in 2020, of which these Atlanta murders are but the most recent horrific example. This event in particular draws attention to the intersection of racism and misogyny that far too often characterizes anti-Asian hate. As we grieve for all that such hate has taken from the world, we express our solidarity with all fighting exploitation and oppression and pursuing social justice, and commit to doing our part toward a world of greater understanding, care, and equity. 

Our department’s mission statement emphasizes our interconnectedness. All of our futures are bound together, and none of us are free until all of us are free.

To learn more about the history and current manifestations of violence against Asians in the US, its intersection with other forms of violence, and for multiple ways to take action, please see these Anti-Asian Violence Resources.

We also endorse this statement by UH President David Lassner.