New York: The Asian American Bar Association of New York (AABANY) announced the release of the latest version of the short documentary Voices Against Anti-Asian Hate. It is available for immediate screening by members of the public, such as community groups, schools, or companies, upon request to AABANY. Produced by AABANY’s Anti-Asian Violence Task Force (AAVTF) and the Asian American Law Fund of New York (AALFNY), this impactful film highlights numerous anti-Asian attacks and the critical work of the Hate Eradication Active Response Team (HEART). The documentary captures the pain and fear experienced by victims and survivors of these attacks and hate crimes, providing them a platform to share their stories.
Voices Against Anti-Asian Hate is not only a powerful tool for advocacy and education but also serves as meaningful programming for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month events in May, as well as for programs hosted by affinity groups and organizations committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. This documentary can bring communities together to reflect upon, educate, and discuss ways to combat hate against AANHPI individuals and other vulnerable communities, making it a vital part of any program dealing with cultural awareness and social justice.
This latest version of Voices Against Anti-Asian Hate is especially powerful because it includes the emotional words of Justin Go, father of Michelle Go, who was tragically pushed to her death in front of a subway train, and Sungkon Lee, father of Christina Yuna Lee, who was murdered in her home. The film also includes the personal recollections of Noel Quintana, who was brutally slashed in the face with a box cutter while riding the subway in New York. These heartfelt accounts highlight the urgent need for change and a collective response to prevent future violence. Their stories not only illustrate the devastating impact of hate crimes and bias incidents but also serve as a powerful call to action for justice, urging society to confront and eradicate hate against AANHPI and other vulnerable communities.
Sylvia Chin, Chair of AABANY’s Anti-Asian Violence Task Force and President of AALFNY, states: “Voices Against Anti-Asian Hate is a testament to the resilience of our community and the dedication of the volunteers, attorneys, and advocates who have committed themselves to this cause. This film is not only a record of the tragedies our community has faced but also a powerful message that no one should feel helpless or suffer alone in the face of such hate.”
Joseph Eng, President of AABANY, emphasized the significance of the documentary: “The rise in anti-Asian hate and violence during the pandemic has exposed deep-seated prejudices that continue to harm our communities. Voices Against Anti-Asian Hate is a crucial tool in our efforts to educate the public, advocate for victims, and unite against racism. It’s a reminder that while hate may persist, so too does our determination to fight it.”
The AANHPI communities in New York City and nationwide have faced a troubling rise in anti-Asian hate and violence, with increasing incidents of harassment, assault, and murder causing significant psychological and emotional distress. In response, AABANY has intensified its efforts to support victims through the AAVTF, which has worked tirelessly over the past four years to bring justice to survivors, provide legal assistance, and foster solidarity within the AANHPI community.
AABANY’s commitment to fighting anti-Asian hate extends beyond legal advocacy. Through HEART, AABANY volunteers work directly with survivors to navigate the criminal justice system, seek recovery, and connect with necessary services, ensuring victims receive the support and assistance they need. AABANY has also been actively involved in tracking and addressing anti-Asian hate incidents through its collaboration with The Asian American Foundation (TAAF). As a community partner, AABANY plays a significant role in the AAPI Hate Tracker, a tool that documents and tracks cases of anti-Asian hate and violence.
To arrange a screening contact Daphne Mei, Program Manager of the AAVTF, at [email protected]. The documentary has a runtime of approximately 30 minutes, and AABANY recommends scheduling one hour for the program to include both the screening and a 30-minute discussion to follow. Upon request, members of the Anti-Asian Violence Task Force are available to participate as panelists, offering their insights and expertise. To see the trailer preview, please click here.
The Asian American Bar Association of New York is a not-for-profit 501(c)(6) professional membership organization of attorneys concerned with issues affecting the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. Incorporated in 1989, AABANY seeks not only to encourage the professional growth of its members but also to advocate for the AAPI community as a whole. AABANY is a New York regional affiliate of the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (NAPABA). AALFNY is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that has helped to fund the production of the documentary.
