July 25, 2024
The police killing of Sonya Massey is nothing short of horrific. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family and loved ones, and we send strength to Black communities across the nation who once again are forced to bear the brunt of police brutality and its devastating consequences.
We are saddened, outraged, and appalled that the very authorities Sonya Massey turned to for help took her life so callously. Acts of police violence like this continue to happen because they are enabled by a carceral system that dehumanizes Black people and other communities of color — a system that has failed us time and time again.
To create systemic change and build safer communities for all, we must recognize the importance of cross-racial solidarity.
When one group is oppressed, we are all oppressed. The 2024 police killings of Win Rozario, Yong Yang, Nyah Mway, and Jaahnavi Kandula are painful reminders that AAPIs are not immune to police violence and misconduct. And we cannot forget that Pacific Islanders and Southeast Asians have long faced disproportionately high rates of police violence.
Stop AAPI Hate is in solidarity with Black communities as we mourn Sonya Massey alongside millions across the nation. We support calls for justice from her family and civil rights groups — including demands for a thorough investigation into former deputy Sean Grayson and the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Department, actions to ensure full and swift accountability, and new policies that put an end to police brutality and misconduct.
