LEAP's Statement on the Anti-Asian Attacks on Suni Lee and Elders

Hate crimes target a fundamental core of communities as these attacks are a direct assault on not only a cultural identity, but unique individuality. The anti-Asian attack against Olympic gymnast Suni Lee and other recent attacks on our elders in San Diego and New York are stark reminders that racism and xenophobia continue to be everyday occurrences for many members of our community. 

Asian and Pacific Islanders (APIs) are the least likely to report hate incidents compared to other groups. Yet such reported attacks jumped over 70 percent in 2020, the highest it’s been in 12 years according to the FBI. It is important to note that the actual numbers are likely even higher since in addition to cultural barriers, some agencies don’t report this data to the FBI or report no hate crimes. 

Despite the ever growing number of hate crimes facing our community, LEAP is resolute in our diaspora’s unwavering perseverance and will continue to uplift the voices of our API diaspora. Decision-makers and organizations in power must collectively continue funneling resources and energy to stopping API hate.