Community leaders in Portland are rallying against the surge in anti-Asian violence, convening with Asian American organizations to tackle the issue head-on. The recent assault of 73-year-old Xinmin Liang, who was viciously attacked while fishing, has sparked outrage. According to KPTV, Liang sustained severe injuries including a concussion, a bruised face, and a broken arm during an unprovoked attack on the Eastbank Esplanade last month.
The aftermath of the incident has been harrowing for the victim and his family; Jie Liang, the victim's daughter, told KPTV that while the physical wounds are healing - evidenced by the removal of stitches from his arm and a fading bruise - the psychological scars remain, as her father now suffers from PTSD, as he is now afraid to go out without disguising himself with a mask or a hat. Combating this wave of targeted violence, 18 organizations representing the Asian American community met with Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt, signaling a unified front against the perpetrators of such hateful acts.
During the meeting, a joint resolve was expressed to strengthen community bonds and assert that Asian Americans are integral members of the societal fabric in Portland. A press release from the coalition of groups, as reported by KATU, stated the community's determination to stand tall, "reaffirming that Asian Americans are not easy targets and that we too are stakeholders in this splendid city."
Portland City Commissioner Rene Gonzalez and Multnomah County Commission Sharon Meieran are among the civic leaders who have joined hands with these organizations, speaking to the assembled crowd at Salmon Street Springs, demonstrating their commitment to the cause, and vowing to bolster safety for all residents.
