In recent weeks, we’ve been reminded of the significant harm caused by racism and hate in so many of our communities. As an organization that fights for an end to hunger and poverty in the United States and abroad, we stand in solidarity with all organizations calling for an end to the racial violence that has plagued far too many communities of color since our country’s inception.
Two nights ago, eight people in Georgia, six of them Asian women, were senselessly killed. While investigators have laid out one narrative based on the perpetrator’s testimony, racism cannot be ruled out – this incident shines a bright light on the on-going anti-Asian violence and harassment that has not just risen during COVID but has deep historical roots in our country. We have heard the voices of our brothers and sisters in the Asian community who live in a state of fear for their lives on a daily basis.
From the beginning of the pandemic, more than 3,700 reports of anti-Asian hate and violence have been tracked, including over 400 physical assaults, by Stop AAPI Hate. These incidents have been reported in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. According to a Pew Research study, three in 10 Asian-Americans have experienced racial slurs or racist jokes since the start of the pandemic. While this might seem like a new reality to some, this builds on the shameful history of violence that far too many communities of color have faced for years.
Share Our Strength recognizes the connection between fighting to end hunger and poverty is tightly connected to fighting for racial and social justice in our communities. We stand against all forms of bigotry, hate, racism and discrimination. We also understand that many in our communities are afraid for their lives and call for an end to anti-Asian hate, xenophobia and all forms of violence impacting Asian members of our community. We stand in solidarity with everyone working for racial justice and ask all to join us toward making a commitment to justice, peace and unity.
Share Our Strength is the nonprofit organization that runs the No Kid Hungry campaign.