Statement on Anti-Asian Violence and Rhetoric

The Co.act Detroit team stands in solidarity with Asian American and Pacific Islander communities throughout our region and our country. In the face of yet another logic-defying atrocity, we affirm our shared humanity and condemn the murders of eight people — six of whom were women of Asian descent.

We see the connections between the increases in violence against people of Asian descent over the past year and the racist language and false claims about the COVID-19 pandemic perpetuated by individuals, organizations and institutions which benefit from a divided public.

We recognize the tragedies of March 16 as a systemic problem: a continuation of xenophobic, misogynistic and racist beliefs and policies present since the earliest days of this country; beliefs and policies that make wars possible, gun violence frequent and violence against women ubiquitous.

We are united with all of our Asian American siblings and neighbors in standing up against hate, xenophobia, misogyny and violence.

— The Co.act Detroit Team

To help combat xenophobia and racism, and to provide support for Asian American communities, please visit these resources and organizations:

• Stop AAPI Hate
• AAPI Women Lead
• Asian Americans Advancing Justice
• Rising Voices of Asian American Families
• Michigan Asian Pacific American Affairs Commission (MAPAAC)