Like many, those who are part of Little Sisters of the Assumption Family Health Service are horrified at the recent incidents of violence against the Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander community taking place both across the country and in our own neighborhood.

Last week’s incident involving Mr. Yao Pan Ma is especially upsetting – taking place in the East Harlem community that we all know and love. 

Unfortunately, Mr. Ma is not alone.  There has been a 150% increase in hate crimes towards Asian and Asian Americans in 2020 – many of which have occurred in New York City.  This city, and East Harlem in particular, is a proud community of immigrants from all over the world; a place where everyone is welcome.  

We at LSA condemn all acts of violence against, and stand firmly with, members of the Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander community and dedicate ourselves to strengthening LSA’s work to end violence, racism, and prejudice.  We stand with members of our East Harlem community, and all New Yorkers, who are experiencing this and all forms of racism and xenophobia and will continue to fight for compassion, equity, and justice for who experience these terrible acts of violence.