In the last few weeks, we have all witnessed the senseless murders of eight people, six of whom were women of Asian descent. The names of those murdered are: Delaina Ashley Yaun, Xiaojie Tan, Daoyou Feng, Paul Andre Michels, Yong Yue, Suncha Kim, Hyun J. Grant, and Soon Park.
In addition, the United States has experienced a 150 percent increase this year in violence against Asians, Asian Americans, and Pacific Islanders. At Studio NYC, we are committed to addressing racial inequity in our city and our country, and we condemn brutality and violence against Asian people. Now is the time to use our art and challenge our assumptions, reflect, and actively confront racism.
In times of suffering, art helps us heal, find solace and strength, and take action. We stand in solidarity with the #StopAsianHate movement and plan to connect our actions with the communities we serve by deepening our commitment to the full potential of each child we teach. In addition, we are in the process of piloting a new Art and Activism curriculum for grades K-12 with a full launch during the fall of 2021.
Our commitment to the principles of inclusion, diversity, equity, and access have been tested many times this year, and we are dedicated to building a strong community where every child has the support needed to thrive, one artwork at a time.
Although we hold sadness in our hearts for these senseless murders and violent attacks in New York City, Studio NYC stands in solidarity with the Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander community to help end this cycle of hate and bigotry. Our children deserve a climate that is free of racism and bias and where their growth, health and safety come first. May we continue to amplify their authentic voice through artmaking, creativity, and freedom.
Sincerely,
Alison Scott-Williams | President, Studio in a School NYC
