Grieving victims of anti-Asian hate crimes and violence toward AAPI peoples

Due to the recent surge of anti-Asian hate crimes and violence deliberately targeted toward the AAPI population, feelings of anger, unease, and sadness have taken root and begun running rampant within Asian/Asian American communities across the States.

Between grieving for lost family, friends, community members—or even strangers—and fearing that the blatant hostility may seem impossible to quell, it is perhaps helpful to remember to not let the grief consume you, to reach out and connect with the community in sharing and processing grief, and to gradually allow yourself to heal.

Here, we would like to offer some resources from Asian/Asian American authors and individuals discussing the rise in Asian hate and violence and how to handle emotional reactions responding to those distressing events. In addition, we would also like to provide a couple of ways to heal and facilitate change, whether within oneself or within the broader community and society.

AAPI Writers Sharing Experiences with Racism and/or Violence

In addition to online articles and essays, there is also a rich archive of literary texts produced by AAPI authors who share their experiences of understanding their Asian heritage in America. Below are several sources that collect books, poems, and movies that speak toward the Asian American experience. 

[Some sources linked below offer the option to make purchases. Peacefully is not affiliated with these corporations, nor does Peacefully receive extra compensation for any purchases made.]

Mental Health Resources

As reported in this video, racial discrimination and violence not only endanger one’s physical wellbeing but also their psychological stability. Living under constant fear and worry of encountering hate and violence toward AAPI peoples has shown its effects on the mental health of senior citizens as well. As one of the primary steps to overcoming grief, it is important to acknowledge and validate these concerns. If you’re uncertain as to what approach is best for you in dealing with trauma and/or grief, seeking help and advice from professionals could also be beneficial. Below are some mental health resources provided by and for AAPI individuals.

  • AANHPI Service Providers in all Fifty States — This website compiles all local mental health and behavioral services for Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders in each state.

  • Project Lotus.org — This organization is a project founded by AAPI individuals aiming to destigmatize the seeking of mental health resources and support through dismantling racial stereotypes. The website not only includes articles and podcast episodes dedicated toward sharing Asian American stories but also webinars and resources for understanding and seeking treatment for mental health.

  • 6 Tips for Coping with Racial Trauma — In addition to this website that provides tips on how to deal with racism-induced trauma, the organization offers online therapy sessions and virtual support groups, with emphasis on providing multicultural therapy and serving the Asian American community.

Supporting the AAPI Community

  • How to be an ally to the AAPI community — This article touches on how to facilitate peaceful and practical discussion on the topics of anti-Asian hate and racism, as well as provides resources for learning how to be an active ally to the AAPI community.

  • Stop AAPI Hate — This is a nonprofit organization dedicated toward recording and preventing anti-Asian hate in the United States. They also provide additional resources, such as donation drives and mental health resources, that aim to achieve physical and mental wellbeing for all AAPI communities.

Finally, although recent events have instilled much fear and grief, it is important to not lose faith and reach out to the broader community to share our experiences in hopes of promoting change. Together, we mourn the many victims of anti-Asian hate crimes and violence, and we hope for the creation of a better and brighter future for all.

Ariel Shih