On January 22, 2023, more than 6 million Asian Americans across California woke up to the news of the Monterey Park mass shooting. The shooter killed ten people and injured ten others during a lunar new year event in a neighborhood that is predominantly Asian and has a rich history of Asian culture. January 22, 2023 was the start of the lunar year and the first time California finally recognized the lunar new year as a state holiday. It was supposed to be a day of celebration, gratitude, and a new beginning for Asian Americans. However, it is now also a day of loss, grief, and collective trauma.
NHeLP stands together with the victims, the Monterey Park community, and our Asian American staff, colleagues, and friends to mourn the tragic losses. Once again, we demand that federal and state lawmakers take action now to end gun violence.
