Dear community,

We are heartbroken and horrified by the tragedy that occurred in Atlanta last night. We are grappling with feelings of grief, anger, and hopelessness—feelings further amplified against the backdrop of increased, vicious, and public acts of anti-Asian hate. To be clear, this attack was a hate crime and is another instance of violence against Asian Americans, and violence against women, that have occurred throughout the entire history of this country.  

Some in our community may be driven to dismantle white supremacy head on. Others are wrestling with the lifelong lessons to remain invisible. Most are exhausted. The slow, yet intense, burn of anti-Asian hate has left us overextended and worn down. The weight is heavy. We say to you, our Asian American community, we know you are hurting. We see you, and we love you. We are here to provide a platform to tell your stories, to hold you up, and to value you. We are proud to be Asian American. And our spirits will not be broken.

For now, we mourn, hold loved ones close, and are kind to ourselves. We prioritize our health and safety. We rest. We find our joy and light.

Then, we take action. For those ready, here are some actionable steps to stay engaged and fight for justice. 

• Donate to the National Asian Pacific American Women's Forum, which advocates for immigrant women’s workers and reproductive rights. www.napawf.org

• Find other Asian American/Pacific Islander organizations and fundraisers to support at gofundme.com/aapi

• Read the national report regarding Asian American/Pacific Islander hate crimes. Learn safety tips and how to report a hate crime. stopaapihate.org

• Join Theater Mu at the next community conversation with the Asian Minnesotan Alliance for Justice. facebook.com/events/737177290306701

• Share with your friends and family. 

• Uplift local Asian American stores, restaurants, and organizations.

• Check-in and listen to your Asian American friends and peers.

Our strength lies in our collective ability to celebrate and amplify the stories of the Asian American community. And this vision can only be actualized when we stand together. 

In solidarity,

Your Theater Mu family