OIA Statement: Supporting LA County’s AAPI Communities

Friday, March 19, 2021

Office of Immigrant Affairs Supports LA County’s AAPI Communities and Calls on Angelenos to Unite Against Hate 

The Los Angeles County Office of Immigrant Affairs is saddened by the violence that occurred in Atlanta this week and mourns the tragic loss of eight lives, including six women of Asian ethnicity. This heartbreaking loss of life is compounded by the anti-Asian bigotry, hate, and misogyny that underlies the violence and many other incidents over recent months.

Los Angeles County’s cultural diversity is a source of strength and pride. The over 1.5 million Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) who live in LA County, many for several generations and others who are immigrants, represent an integral, rich part of the fabric of the County. Many members of our AAPI communities continue to serve heroically on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic as essential workers in all fields, including healthcare, law enforcement, and government, and as small business owners. AAPI Angelenos have been forced to deal with the fear and uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic while also confronting growing hate and discrimination. Anti-AAPI hate has no place in our nation, and certainly no place in Los Angeles County.

The Office of Immigrant Affairs encourages all Angelenos to use this week’s tragedy as a call to action to heal, to grow, and to learn. The LA vs Hate campaign encourages and supports all residents of LA County to unite against, report, and resist hate. If you have been a victim of a hate incident, please call the County’s 24/7 multilingual hotline at 2-1-1 to report the incident, and to receive support and resources. Immigrants are encouraged to access these services without fear related to their immigration status. Persons who still have such concerns, or who wish to be connected to wraparound services from LA County, can contact the Office of Immigrant Affairs for assistance: (800) 593-8222; oia.lacounty.gov.