The recent surge in anti-Asian violence represents an escalating pattern that is grotesque and urgent. Last year, Stop AAPI Hate tracked more than 3,800 anti-Asian and Pacific Islander racist incidents. These attacks have included harassment, violent assaults, and mass murder in Atlanta. It is unacceptable, heartbreaking, and it must stop.
Sadly, these incidents are not new. There is a long history of anti-Asian racism in the United States, going back hundreds of years. Fueled by the previous administration’s characterization of the coronavirus’ origins, long-simmering anti-Asian sentiment has been made acceptable and even encouraged in new ways. This is wrong and we condemn it completely.
Heath Share of Oregon is in a unique position to address the social determinants of health, health equity challenges, and integration opportunities that can bridge gaps between racist impacts and improved health outcomes for everyone. To that end, last December we distributed quality withhold funds to help support the Oregon Chinese Coalition, Oregon Marshallese Community Association, Chinese Friendship Association of Portland, the National Alliance for Filipino Concerns and others serving the Asian-American and Pacific Islanders in our area. We vigorously work to engage all groups to ensure voices are heard and listened to. We continue to learn how we can support these groups in the collaborative. We stand strong in saying no to racism, racist violence, and to racial disparities in our health systems.
Together we recognize the pain, trauma, and exhaustion these racists attacks can have on our staff, specifically Asian-American Health Share staff and staff of our collaborative organizations. Let us all be mindful of our friends who may need extra support from all of us. Please know that you are not alone, you are seen, and we are all here to help support you.
Resources
There are many things we can do to support the local AAPI community in the Tri-Counties.
Asian Americans Advancing Justice: In addition to pushing for education, litigation, and public policy reform benefiting AAPI communities around the country, this org offers bystander intervention techniques and tips on how to respond to anti-Asian harassment.
Asian Mental Health Collective: With a mission to "normalize and de-stigmatize mental health within the Asian community," this website features an insightful interview series with mental health experts, an "ask a therapist" video with LA's Jedidiah Chun, a community blog, and a podcast - Mental Health Mukbang, as well as hotlines and other ways to get in touch with AAPI health professionals.
Asian Pacific Fund's COVID Recovery Fund: Based in the Bay Area, this fund links donors to Asian-owned businesses that are struggling to stay afloat due to COVID-19.
Stop AAPI Hate: California State University's forum, where you can report anti-Asian hate crimes.