March 25, 2021 In Solidarity with AAPI Communities A message from our Co-Interim Executive Directors and Board President We are in mourning, yet again for the lives lost because of hate, racism, misogyny, and xenophobia. We pay tribute to them: Xiaojie Tan Daoyou Feng Delaina Ashley Yaun Paul Andre Michels Soon Chung Park Hyun Jung Grant Suncha Kim Yong Ae Yue Friends of the Children-Seattle is outraged by the increasing occurrence of racist hate crimes towards our Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander (AAPI) neighbors and communities since the COVID-19 pandemic began when racist hate-filled rhetoric was spread by our then-president, his followers, and too many others. We also acknowledge this trend of xenophobia is not new. Friends of the Children-Seattle does not stand for and condemns racism and hate in all forms. The racism and racist structures in this country perpetuate cycles of inequity. We must take action. We remain committed to combating racism by supporting, educating, and empowering our young people to navigate the realities of prejudices, biases, and discrimination they will encounter. We continue to value and elevate the rich culture, knowledge, and assets that diversity and inclusion provide to our community and world. Today, as a society, we must acknowledge this hate, pay attention to these continued acts of racism, and stand in solidarity with the AAPI communities around the country. This means we must commit our voices and resources to lift AAPI voices. Below are some links you will find helpful. You can support one or more of these organizations in gratitude for their work and ensure their sustainability in the future. https://acrs.org/ https://www.aaldef.org/ https://stopaapihate.org/ https://www.seattlerep.org/about-us/inside-seattle-rep/aapi-racial-justice-resources/ In solidarity, Michelle Hurd, Co-Interim Executive Director Kelsey Woods, Co-Interim Executive Director Linda Perlstein, Board President