May 8, 2023 – The Stop AAPI Hate coalition has released the following statement in response to today’s shooting at a mall in Allen, Texas that claimed the lives of at least eight people, including three young children, and wounded seven. 

“We are heartbroken and devastated by this horrific act of violence, and extend our deepest condolences to their families, loved ones, and all those impacted during this incredibly difficult time. 

“We now know that four of the lives lost were Asian people—three members of a Korean family as well as an Indian woman. Most of the eight killed were people of color. We also know that investigators are examining the alleged gunman’s apparent adherence to white supremacist and neo-Nazi ideologies. 

“This tragedy is yet another reminder of the dangerous consequences of hate and bigotry. The ongoing normalization and amplification of white supremacy and far-right extremism poses a growing threat to communities of all stripes across the nation, and inaction on this issue continues to destroy lives. It’s past time for our leaders to step up and take swift, decisive action to address the root causes of racism, xenophobia, and other forms of hate. 

“We also join other Asian American groups in calling on lawmakers to take immediate and decisive action to address the rising tide of gun violence—which is increasingly terrorizing AAPI communities, from the shootings in Atlanta to Monterey Park to Allen. We are outraged, and they should be too. We can no longer tolerate the devastating toll of gun violence on our communities, and it is unacceptable that someone influenced by white supremacy and extremist ideology is allowed to possess and use firearms designed for war to carry out violent attacks against innocent people. Our leaders need to prioritize the safety of our communities over the interests of gun manufacturers and lobbyists.

“We cannot afford to wait for the next tragedy to act. Our elected officials need to break this cycle of hate-fueled violence, because the safety and welfare of all depend on it, and because it is indeed possible.”