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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Carlos Mariani (DFL)

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Saint Paul Politicians Issue Statement on Atlanta Shooting

Wednesday, March 17, 2021

SAINT PAUL – On Tuesday, March 16, a series of shootings took place across several Atlanta massage parlors resulting in the deaths of eight people, several of whom were of Asian descent. The members of the Minnesota House of Representatives, Minnesota Senate, and city officials who represent Saint Paul released the following statement:

“Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an increase in violence against Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPI), immigrants, and international citizens. Over the past month in particular, there has been a rise of anti-AAPI violence, and these violent acts have culminated in the horrific murders yesterday in Atlanta, Georgia, which included six AAPI women.

This was not a random act of violence, the perpetrator of these crimes specifically targeted Asian Americans and travelled to strike multiple businesses on his rampage. These killings were rooted in anti-AAPI sentiment, which was made worse by the persistent stereotype of over-sexualized AAPI women.

Saint Paul is home to nearly 60,000 AAPI residents, and hundreds of AAPI owned businesses. AAPI businesses, cultural events, and restaurants are an integral aspect of our St. Paul life, and part of what makes our city the thriving, exciting city that it is. Our AAPI neighbors, colleagues, friends and family members deserve to feel safe and secure both in our city and the state of Minnesota.

We cannot and will not tolerate racism, hate, or discrimination of any kind. We have an obligation to take a stand against anti-AAPI violence and sentiments, and to support family, friends, and neighbors who have been affected.”

Reps. Kaohly Her (64A), Dave Pinto (64B), Rena Moran (65A), Carlos Mariani (65B), Alice Hausman (66A), Athena Hollins (66B), John Thompson (67A), and Jay Xiong (67B), Senators Erin Murphy (64), Sandra Pappas (65), John Marty (66), and Foung Hawj (67), along with Mayor Melvin Carter, Council President Amy Brendmoen, Council Member Nelsie Yang, and Council Member Mitra Jalali sign onto this statement in solidarity with AAPI communities.