ACRS stands in solidarity with protesters, Black Lives Matter movement

ACRS stands in solidarity with the Black community and protesters around the country who are vehemently demanding that Black Lives Matter. The recent murders of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor all point to our country’s very real and painful challenge with racism and specifically, anti-blackness. Throughout the country and here in Seattle, we are seeing pain, anger, and frustration being channeled into mass protests asking that our country stop devaluing Black people who continue to be hurt, harmed and killed. We join them in demanding continued reform for greater police accountability and to stop the violence against Black people.

As we as an Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community experience this critical moment alongside others, we must continue to work to counter the anti-Black thoughts that exist in ourselves, our families, and in our communities. We must stand unwaveringly in support of Black lives. As we reflect on the recent month of May as Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, it is important to recognize that the legacy of our fight for equity and social justice, our gains and benefits, exist in large part because of the work of Black activists. Our legacy becomes hollow unless we do not do everything possible to prevent harm and hurt for those who are most marginalized.

Respectfully yours,

Michael Byun
ACRS Executive Director