Student organizes rally against anti-Asian hate crimes

SANMATEO>> In response to the recent rash of attacks against Asian Americans in the Bay Area, a San Mateo middle schooler is organizing a “Stand for Asians Rally” at 1 p.m. today at the city’s Central Park.

An announcement posted on Eventbrite by 12-year-old Ashlyn So said the purpose of the rally is to bring together people of all ages and races to speak out against antiAsian hate crimes, especially those involving elders.

Recent assaults in the Bay Area’s Chinatowns have heightened fears that anti-Asian sentiments are rising again. Disturbing images have gone viral over the past weeks, including one of a frail 91-year-old man being shoved to the ground while walking in Oakland’s Chinatown.

So said she hopes the rally will show support for the Asian community and raise awareness of the crimes. Belmont Mayor Charles Stone and San Mateo Council member Amourence Lee will be joined by the founding members of the Millbrae Anti-Racist Coalition in speaking against anti-Asian crimes.

“The message is to raise awareness through our march, then have speakers at the end and discuss how we as a community can step up to alleviate the situation with compassion, education, and unity,” So said.

Millbrae Council member Anders Fung, who will also be speaking at the park, said Thursday he is encouraged to see young leaders like So taking action.

Fung said he has sent an open letter asking the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors to adopt an ordinance declaring all racially motivated attacks as hate crimes. He wants to see an enhanced criminal penalty for such attacks and more resources to reach out to victims.

“We have to take a zero tolerance approach toward crimes that are racially motivated,” Fung said. “Thankfully our young leaders are very much in tune with what is going on.”