The recent attacks on three Asian-owned massage parlors in Atlanta senselessly ended the lives of eight people, including six women of Asian descent. We are deeply saddened and alarmed by these attacks and recognize their connection to the broader pattern of racially motivated harm and abuse perpetrated against Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities in the United States. 

The PRSA San Francisco Bay Area Chapter stands in solidarity with our AAPI colleagues and friends. As communicators and as humans, we endeavor through our individual and collective actions to do our part to bring about a more just and inclusive world and stand up against acts of violence and dehumanization. 

Long after the media attention around these attacks fades, we remain committed to living up to our crucial tenant of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We embrace this responsibility as we support the AAPI communities. 

#StopAsianHate 

• Donate. A number of organizations could use your donations, including but not limited to:
• Hate is a Virus
• Victim of Violent Crimes in the Bay Area
• Support the Cause Against Anti-Asian Violence
• Asian Americans Advancing Justice

New York Magazine has a list of over 50 ways you can support the Asian communities.

• Educate yourself and read before you share resources.
• Pronunciation Guide to Atlanta Spa Shooting Victims with Korean / Chinese Names
• Guide to bystander intervention 
• Sign a the Stop the Racial Profiling of Asian Americans and Asian Immigrants and End the Justice Department’s “China Initiative” and Send a letter to your Member of Congress
• Support your local Asian-American Owned Small Business and local Asian food restaurants. 
• Reach out to your Asian friends and colleagues. Don't ask "How are you feeling?" or "Is there anything I can do for you?" as this puts the onus on them. 
• CNBC's "Make It" has helpful tips for those looking for guidance in the workplace

 

• Safety Tips for Those Witnessing Hate
• Take Action: Approach the targeted person, introduce yourself, and offer support.
• Actively Listen: Ask before taking any actions and respect the targeted person’s wishes. Monitor the situation if needed.
• Ignore Attacker: Using your discretion, attempt to calm the situation by using your voice, body language, or distractions.
• Accompany: If the situation escalates, invite the targeted person to join you in leaving.
• Offer Emotional Support: Help the targeted person by asking how they’re feeling. Assist them in figuring out what they want to do next.

If you see something, say something! Report an incident to Stand Against Hatred or Stop APPI Hate.

Sincerely,

Jocelyn Arellano

2021 PRSA San Francisco Bay Area Chapter President