Washington, DC—At the start of AAPI Heritage Month, People For the American Way President Ben Jealous released the following statement:

“This Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month is even more notable than in the past, after a year in which the AAPI community has suffered an unconscionable rise in racist attacks amid the COVID pandemic. There is no excuse for using the pandemic to fan the flames of bigotry, especially when done by those in our nation’s highest offices. We are glad to see the current Congress and administration taking steps to fight anti-AAPI racism and to increase AAPI representation in our government. And we also want to use this moment to recognize and celebrate the contributions of the AAPI community to American life. These rich contributions have been on all fronts, in the arts, academia, the military, law, the economy, government, and more — and in spite of discrimination and hardship. This month gives us a chance to renew our year-round appreciation for the role of the AAPI community and recommit to equity and opportunity for all its citizens.”

About People For the American Way

People For the American Way is a progressive advocacy organization founded to fight right-wing extremism and build a democratic society that implements the ideals of freedom, equality, opportunity and justice for all. We encourage civic participation, defend fundamental rights, and fight to dismantle systemic barriers to equitable opportunity. Learn more: https://www.pfaw.org.