Jewish Dems Stand with Asian American Community and Call for Action After Attack on Women in Atlanta

WASHINGTON – In response to reports that shootings in Atlanta that  left eight dead and three wounded on Tuesday evening were targeted attacks against women, Jewish Democratic Council of America (JDCA) CEO Halie Soifer released the following statement:

“The nexus between white supremacy, guns and violence against women constitutes a national emergency. This act of unspeakable hate in Georgia is the latest in the rise of violent attacks and vitriolic rhetoric targeting Asian Americans. The Jewish Democratic Council of America (JDCA) stands in solidarity and mourning with the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community in this heartbreaking moment.

“In recent years, white supremacists have been emboldened and fed dangerous lies and conspiracy theories steeped in racism, bigotry, antisemitism and misogyny. Some elected officials, including former President Trump, have fed that bigotry by inciting fear targeting the AAPI community, using slurs and derogatory names when discussing the COVID-19 pandemic. Words have consequences, and we’re outraged that Asian Americans have been targeted as a result.

“As JDCA has repeatedly said – hate doesn’t stop itself; it must be stopped. Today, we call on Congress to pass legislation to bring an end to the conditions that perpetuate violence against women and marginalized communities. As the House votes on the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), we call on the Senate to also pass this bill and immediately and send it to President Biden’s desk. We will continue to stand in solidarity and work to protect our AAPI neighbors and family and urge all Jewish Americans to do the same.”