On this day in 1865, more than 250,000 African Americans enslaved in Texas were notified of their freedom, 2.5 years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. One hundred fifty five years later, on the anniversary of what we now celebrate as Juneteenth, SEARAC stands in solidarity with the Black community in honoring this important history and to fight in defense of Black lives.
Inspired by the important work Southeast Asian American, Asian American, and Pacific Islander leaders are spearheading to move our communities in support of Black leadership, we are proud to launch a Solidarity Resource Hub that highlights their impactful work and ways we can all get involved.
“As a national civil rights organization, SEARAC stands together with the Black community in pursuit of social equity,” said Quyen Dinh, executive director of SEARAC. “Our own paths to equity are only possible through the historic civil rights forged by Black struggle and leaders, and it is with deep gratitude that many of our SEAA leaders and young people are following in the leadership of Black leaders, continuing the important legacy of fighting for a socially, politically, and economically just society where all our communities can thrive.”
Included in this hub are difficult conversations that SEAA and AAPI leaders are holding across the country to address anti-Blackness in our communities and educate about structural racism. There are also anti-racism toolkits, trainings, and protest and advocacy tips to connect our community with solidarity support resources and in-language materials.
As the largest refugee community ever resettled in the United States, we have the unique honor of paying special homage to the intersectionalities of Pride Month, Immigrant Heritage Month, support for the Black Lives Matter movement with Juneteenth actions kicking off today and recognition of World Refugee Day tomorrow. We hope you will join us in the fight for Black lives and celebration of all these historic milestones!