“Unity Against Hate” is a rallying cry that was heard across the country Saturday at dozens of public demonstrations against the surge in hate crimes targeting Asian Americans.
One such rally took place in San Mateo.
It’s a national campaign that’s being picked up by quite a few local civic leaders in the Bay Area, including Millbrae City Councilmember Anders Fung, who organized the demonstration in San Mateo’s Central Park.
“For many Asian Americans, this past year has forced us to recon with the system we exist in,” he said at the rally.
As one step to address the surge in hate, organizers announced that in cities throughout San Mateo County, May 15 will now be known as Communities United Day. In the meantime, they’re also calling for stronger laws to crack down on hate crimes.
“For too long, violence against persons of color has been denied in the United States,” said Congresswoman Jackie Speier.
Speier cast the day of activism as one part of a broader struggle for the nation’s soul.
“We are a community united in demanding justice for all,” she said.
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