As Always, Silence Is Betrayal

As always, silence is betrayal. In a recent article by one of our Staff Writers, Wendy Gao, she explains, “For decades, Asian Americans have unified behind other movements. But we have yet to have one of our own—one that ends our silence and frees us from the false narratives that mask our realities and needs. It means telling our stories, heeding our histories, and becoming visible in the public eye.” The recent murders of Xiaojie Tan, Daoyou Feng, Soon C. Park, Hyun J. Grant, Suncha Kim, Yong A. Yue, Delaina Yaun, and Paul Andre Michels not only highlight the increase in violence against the APIDA community but also years of deeply-rooted imperialist white supremacy.

The Virginia Review of Politics stands in solidarity with APIDA communities on Grounds, in Charlottesville, and throughout the country. We wholeheartedly endorse the U.Va Asian American student organizations’ letter on combating white supremacy and anti-Asian violence. In their letter, they write, “Violence towards Asians and Asian Americans in this present moment can, in no way, be separated from the long histories of U.S. militarism, imperialism, and racial capitalism….[O]ur efforts and attention should be redirected towards community care, accountability systems rooted in transformative justice, and measures that support public health and communal safety.” Professor Sylvia Chong has compiled several resources to learn more about racism against the APIDA community. Dedicate yourself to becoming educated and anti-racist.

If there is anything you would like to see the Review to support you and your communities, please reach out at virginiareviewofpolitics@gmail.com.