Recording Academy Decries Anti-Asian Hate in New Statement After Atlanta Shootings

Below, find the Recording Academy’s full statement in support of AAPI (Asian American/Pacific-Islander) communities following the Atlanta-area shootings:

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a disturbing rise in discrimination against the Asian-American community. On Tuesday, March 16, a shooting in the Atlanta area left eight people dead.

The Recording Academy is deeply saddened by this incident and denounces any and all hate crimes and asks the music community to stand together against these incidents.

Every day, our work as creators demonstrates the power of diversity and the strength that comes when individuals from different backgrounds come together. Let’s continue to be a positive example for the rest of the world and work collectively to drive change.

We encourage you to support the work of Stop AAPI Hate, Asian Americans Advancing Justice, and the other organizations currently addressing these challenges.

The Television Academy posted a statement on its home page and also released it on its social media accounts:

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences likewise posted statements on its Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn pages.

The man who police say went on a rampage at three spas in the Atlanta area, killing eight people, was charged Wednesday with eight counts of murder in connection with the attacks. While police haven’t specified the man’s motives, many experts believe the increase in anti-Asian violence is linked to the COVID-19 pandemic, which former President Trump frequently referred to as “the Asian flu” or “Kung Flu.”

Click here to find out how you can help the Asian American community like many musicians have been doing in recent days.