FMC STATEMENT ON ANTI-ASIAN AMERICAN VIOLENCE

Anti-Asian American Racism Affects Us All

(Washington, DC - March 22, 2021) — FMC, the association of Former Members of Congress, applauds the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights and Civil Liberties for holding a hearing last week, focused on discrimination against Asian Americans.  This hearing came in light of an alarming increase in hate crimes against the Asian/Pacific Islander communities in the United States.  It is tragic that the hearing coincided with yet another heinous attack against this community, and that victims of all ages are singled out based on their ethnicity.  It is equally heartbreaking that more than 30 years have passed since the last time Congress examined this significant manifestation of racism within our society. 

During emotional testimony, Asian American lawmakers shared harrowing personal experiences that shone a much-needed spotlight on disturbing acts of violence, including murder.  As a society, we must confront the fact that men and women of color are the targets of abuse, hatred and violence.  It is equally important to call out political leaders who encourage racism through public comments, scapegoating and hate speech.  As a society, we must require our political leaders to meet a higher standard, one which deems as unacceptable the racial remarks against fellow citizens, including painting them as responsible for a global pandemic.

At this crucial time in our nation’s understanding of race relations, FMC recommits itself to the values of diversity, equity and inclusion.  This commitment extends through our international legislative exchanges, including those focused on Japan and Korea.  We are also committed to learning from the diverse experience of our stakeholders, including FMC staff, board of directors, membership and partnering organizations.  There is much to learn and much left to be done as we strive toward an America free of systemic racism and violence toward the innocent. However, we are also critically aware that too much time and too many lives have been lost already due to inaction.