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As the month of June came to an end, we enter July with pride and fulfillment as we witnessed the Unity March take place, marking the first-ever Asian American-led march of this scale. The historic event brought together thousands of Asians, Asian Americans, and allies both virtually and in person to the National Mall in Washington, DC on June 25 to demand socioeconomic and cultural equity, racial justice, and solidarity for our communities. We express deep gratitude toward all of our speakers, community members, and allies who supported this historic moment to rise in unity against white supremacy and violence as we rebuild a future that values and protects the civil and human rights of all Americans.
These celebrations of unity and inclusion were clouded, however, by the reversal of Roe v. Wade less than 24 hours before the event. In a 6-3 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade through its decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, declaring that the constitutional right to abortion, upheld for nearly a half-century, no longer exists. We are enraged by the decision that is likely to roll back abortion rights in at least 22 states.
This decision signals the overturning of decades of established precedent, eroding basic human rights for millions of Americans and endangering many other civil liberties we take for granted. Eri Andriola, Staff Attorney for Litigation at Advancing Justice - AAJC says, “The rolling back of reproductive rights by banning access to abortion care jeopardizes the well-being and financial stability for millions of Asian American individuals and families. The road back to protecting our rights is long, but we are prepared for the fight.”
We also recognize President Biden’s signing of the historic legislation providing pathway to the first National Museum for Asian Pacific American History and Culture. As our nation endures the senseless attacks and hate rooted in systemic racism that continues to harm all communities of color, establishing a National Museum of Asian Pacific American History and Culture helps ensure that the histories and knowledge of our communities are recognized. Our President and Executive Director John C. Yang said in a statement, “This sends a powerful signal to our nation that Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders are just as much part of America like every other community."
The recent violent attacks that have stolen lives in Latino, Black, Korean, and Taiwanese communities have re-emphasized the need for action and unity. Hate impacts us all. We stand in solidarity with those who are mourning these senseless acts. Each of these events has served as a pivotal turning point in history that awakened a reckoning and a mass mobilization of millions across the country. As long as the rights of Asian Americans and allied communities are under attack, Advancing Justice - AAJC will continue to fight for a safer, more equitable world for all.
Keep scrolling to read more about these Advancing Justice - AAJC initiatives and more.
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