On May 24th, University Settlement-Houston Street Center, Committee of 100, and Empowerment of American Asians will join hands in hosting an event called “Asian Pacific American Caregiver Appreciation Day” in Manhattan’s Chinatown. This event aims to recognize the role of Asian Pacific American caregivers in the community, highlighting their compassion, resilience, and selflessness in everyday life. Various community resources, practical assistance, and support will be provided during the event.
During a press conference held at the community center on May 16th, Zheng Xinghui, Assistant Director of University Settlement-Houston Street Center, Cindy Tsai, Acting President of Committee of 100, and Thomas Ong, Chairman of the New York Chinese American Veterans Association, announced that the event has received support from government agencies such as the New York City Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs, the New York City Commission on Human Rights, and the New York City Emergency Management Bureau. They also revealed that the event will feature key services such as the introduction of a reporting system for Asian Pacific American hate incidents and support for victims of such incidents.
Cindy Tsai, Acting President of Committee of 100, mentioned during the press conference that there were numerous hate incidents targeting Asians in New York City during the 2020 pandemic. She emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of family and friends while being outside. Tsai expressed concerns about the lack of resources provided by elected officials and the government. She underscored the necessity for more data on hate crime incidents within the Asian community to advocate for necessary resources.
“In light of this, I have decided to provide evidence, but I also need everyone’s help in spreading awareness to record hate crimes,” Tsai stated. Working in collaboration with The Asian American Foundation, the Asian Pacific American Hate Incident Reporting System (AAPI Hate Tracker Info) is the first system available in 11 Asian languages to enable individuals to document daily instances of Asian hate incidents.
During the event, Committee of 100 will introduce the Asian Pacific American hate incident reporting system to attendees and emphasize the importance of reporting hate incidents within the Asian community. Additionally, there will be captivating traditional dance performances, distribution of exquisite gifts to attendees, food provided by “Send Chinatown Love,” as well as gifts and a thrilling grand prize draw.
The “Asian Pacific American Caregiver Appreciation Day” event will take place on Friday, May 24th, from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM at University Settlement-Houston Street Center located at 273 Bowery St, Manhattan, New York. Due to limited space, only 200 free admission tickets will be available for the event. Community members can collect tickets at University Settlement-Houston Street Center starting from 11:00 AM on May 21st. Each person is eligible to receive one ticket for themselves and one ticket for someone else, on a first-come, first-served basis until tickets are fully distributed.