#StopAsianHate: An Online Discussion & Books About the AAPI Experience

By Kelly Yim, Supervising Librarian

April 22, 2021

They say sticks and stones may break my bones, words will never hurt me. Words do hurt. What we say does matter.

I cringed when I first heard the terms "kung flu virus," "Chinese coronavirus," and "China virus." These terms were being regularly used by some politicians and media figures. Others were making jokes using "Chinese-sounding" words and stereotypes. During this time, the Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community wasn’t just battling the COVID-19 virus. We also endured, and continue to endure, the "viruses" of ignorance, hate, bigotry, racism, and xenophobia. Many of us have been feeling sad, angry, fearful, or traumatized.

The Library is for everyone. It stands for inclusion and equity for all. We are all responsible for bringing positive change into our communities. We can start by continuing our journey to learn, listen, and grow.

On May 25, the Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library will host a discussion about Asian hate. You will hear some of the lived experiences of people in the AAPI community. We will also talk about the misconception that Asian individuals are at fault for the COVID-19 crisis and actions that individuals can take against Asian hate. To register for the program click on the link below.