John,

Oregon is the proud home of thousands of Asian immigrants and refugees, Asian-Americans and Asian Pacific Islanders. They are our treasured co-workers, neighbors, friends, and family.

Since COVID-19 arrived in the United States, we have heard continual references to the disease as the "Chinese virus" (including from President Trump) and other inappropriate associations with Asian communities, stoking xenophobic perceptions that Asians – and all those perceived to be Asian – are somehow at fault for this public health crisis. Nothing could be further from the truth.

In the midst of this pandemic, Asian individuals and communities around the country have reported acts of aggression and violence, such as being spit on, coughed at, physically attacked, and assaulted. Asian-owned businesses, as well, have suffered harassment and discrimination.

As the People's Attorney, and the leader of the Oregon Hate Crimes Task Force, I have long stood against – and taken action against – all manner of hate in Oregon. But this disturbing trend requires special action. So last Friday, I called on all of Oregon in condemning and combating the racism targeting our Asian immigrants and refugees, Asian-American, and Pacific Islander communities.

We are all on the same team against this virus, and everyone in Oregon – and throughout the country – deserves freedom from violence and discrimination.

In my life, John, it has never been so critical that we look out for one another. So today, I ask that you join me and officials and community leaders from across Oregon in signing our Call to Action. We will get through this crisis – standing together.