CAPAC Members on Third Anniversary of White Supremacist Rally in Charlottesville
Washington, D.C. – August 11-12 mark the third anniversary of a white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia that left three dead and more than a dozen injured. Members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPC) released the following statements:
Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-27), CAPAC Chair:
“Today is an anniversary that should never have happened. Three years ago, white supremacists and neo-Nazis filled the streets of Charlottesville to defend a statue of Confederate General Robert E. Lee and to intimidate people of color and religious minorities. It was an open assault on American values that turned deadly after one of these white supremacists drove a car into a crowd, killing an innocent woman, Heather Heyer, and leading to the deaths of state troopers Lt. H. Jay Cullen and Trooper Berke M.M Bates, whose helicopter crashed while patrolling the rally. These Americans were victims of a campaign of bigotry and racism that has been encouraged by a President who called the white supremacist marchers ‘very fine people’ and who continues to incite anger today by seeking out new fights over symbols of the Confederacy.
“Sadly, Donald Trump’s praise of violent white supremacists in Charlottesville stands in stark contrast to his attacks on peaceful protesters across our nation who have filled the streets to demand justice and change following the murder of George Floyd. What we have seen from these protests is that America’s diversity is our strength and we are stronger when we stand together against racism and injustice. So as we mark this solemn anniversary, let us renew our efforts to fight bigotry and ensure that all Americans, regardless of their race, religion, or background, can live in an America that is free from hate.”
Congresswoman Grace Meng (NY-06), CAPAC First Vice Chair:
“On the third anniversary of the violence brought by white supremacists in Charlottesville, VA, we remember Heather Heyer, who tragically lost her life while protesting against the hatred and bigotry of that rally. The President’s continual use of racist rhetoric, implementation of racist policies, and half-hearted efforts to denounce white supremacist groups is unacceptable. It is important for all of us to remember that America is stronger because of the diversity of our citizens, as we continue to speak out against hateful and racist individuals and groups. It is more crucial than ever for Members of Congress to fight for a future free of hatred.”
Congressman Mark Takano (CA-41), CAPAC Second Vice Chair:
“Since our nation’s founding, the forces of white supremacy have plagued our country. The Unite the Right rally that took place in Charlottesville is just one recent example of how dangerous white supremacist ideologies can be. This rally was a shameful display of racism and xenophobia fueled by hatred that led to the murder of a young woman, Heather Heyer. It is our duty to condemn white supremacy and racist violence and work to root out hate in America.”
Congressman Ted Lieu (CA-33), CAPAC Whip:
“Three years ago, we witnessed a horrific display of racism and bigotry at a white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia. Today we honor and remember Heather Heyer and the two state troopers who lost their lives that day. The President of the United States still has not condemned this hateful attack and continues to stoke violence with ignorant, discriminatory rhetoric. His words and actions do not reflect the values of the majority of Americans. Today and every day we must condemn and oppose acts of racism and xenophobia and fight for a more peaceful future.”
Congressman Ro Khanna (CA-17):
“Our country has withstood countless attacks on our fundamental values of tolerance, acceptance, and respect. In 2018, we watched a small group driven by hate gather in Charlottesville to preach a message that runs directly counter to the American mission. Their heinous speech and violent actions have no place here. After a year filled with powerful calls for civil rights and monumental movements for equal treatment and justice, today is yet another reminder of how much work we have to do in the push for bold change.”
Congresswoman Katherine Clark (MA-05):
“Three years ago, watching white supremacists proudly and openly shout messages of bigotry and racism on the streets of Charlottesville shocked the conscience of our nation. Since then, millions across the country have marched in the streets against racial injustice, responding to hatred and racism with love and unity. The Americans who courageously stood in defiance of those despicable beliefs on display in Charlottesville truly are the best of us. The memories of Heather Heyer and Troopers Cullen and Bates live on when we come together to stand up against those who seek to oppress our fellow Americans.”
Congresswoman Deb Haaland (NM-01):
“Our diversity makes our country strong, but white supremacy fosters hate, but President Trump’s words have emboldened white supremacists and domestic terrorism in our communities. We can never forget the brave people who were taken from us in Charlottesville while they were standing up against hate and bigotry. We need to continue inspiring, pushing and fighting for an America that values equality and weeds out racism in all forms.”