In the face of a wave of hate crimes against Asian Americans, the mayor of Antioch is introducing a set of proposals aimed at uplifting the Chinese American community and apologizing for historic wrongs made by the city.
"A Filipino American is slashed in the face with a box cutter. A Chinese woman is slapped and then set on fire. These are just a few examples of what we can no longer ignore, let alone normalize, in our city, our state and throughout our country," said Mayor Lamar Thorpe.
He issued a proclamation condemning hate crimes and proposed funding a permanent exhibit on the history of the city’s Chinese American community at the Antioch Historical Society and Museum.
"In 1876, Antioch’s Chinatown – which we’re literally standing on – was burned down and it later became Waldie Plaza. People of Chinese heritage were banned from walking Antioch city streets after sunset," said Thorpe. "As mayor, I want to express my deepest sympathies to the AAPI community and pray that we get through this by working together to bring an end to violence and terror."
"History matters," said museum president Dwayne Eubanks. "We at the Historical Society are excited, because this day is the dawning of a new era for Antioch."
Other proposals include designating a Chinatown historic district and supporting a community mural project to teach people about the city’s historic Chinese community.
Andy Lee, president of the Contra Costa Community College District, said he appreciates the gesture.
"It lets us know and see the support from the community during this hardship. So thank you very much."
The city council expected to vote on the proposals by early May.
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