“The rise in hate crimes and violence against our Asian-American neighbors that is taking place across the country, and right here in Queens, is not only disturbing, but it is driving a wedge through our communities. Everyone deserves to live their life free of hate and discrimination. We as elected officials have a duty to provide that right to all who live within our communities. Queens’s diversity is one of our most important strengths, and should be celebrated. We as a community, as a city and as a country need to stand with our Asian neighbors at this time and put an end to this hate together. Today I stand with my Asian-American friends, neighbors, and colleagues in calling for an end to this violence on this #StopAsianHate Virtual Day of Action and Healing.”