We write today in support of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) and join those condemning the appalling acts of racism, violence, and discrimination committed against these communities across the nation.
Anti-Asian hate crimes have been growing at an alarming rate since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. This is a difficult and frightening time for members of the AAPI community, and we stand in solidarity with them.
We understand that solidarity is action, not only words. At the Staten Island Children’s Museum, we are committed to creating a welcoming place where our diverse community is enabled, and empowered to learn, explore, and play. Over the years, we’ve made a point to highlight key leaders, artists, and non-profits of Asian American and Pacific Islander descent through special workshops to educate our children about the great impact that this Community has on the world.
We strive to do more to call for justice, and will continue to work toward educating families about anti-racism, and encourage all children to treat each other with the utmost respect, fairness, and tolerance.
Now more than ever, our Asian and Pacific Islander friends need us to check in and be there for them. During these challenging times, we offer some resources to learn more about how you can talk about these issues with your family and help the AAPI Community through education, donations, and action.
NPR WNYC
How to start conversations about Anti-Asian Racism with Your Family
Learning for Justice (Southern Poverty Law Center)
After Atlanta:Teaching About Asian American Identity and History
Here is a compilation of resources that have been gathered to help individuals educate others, act, donate, and more:
https://anti-asianviolenceresources.carrd.co/
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts Asian American Commission
Community Action Guide: Responding To AAPI Hate Incidents:
An Asian American Racial Justice Toolkit curated by several Asian American communities: https://www.apalanet.org/uploads/8/3/2/0/83203568/asian_american_racial_justice_toolkit.pdf
