National ACE Statement on the Shooting in Monterey Park

This past weekend, on the eve of Lunar New Year, we lost another 10 victims to gun violence in Monterey Park, California. On a day that should have been a joyous celebration, we find ourselves mourning a tragedy that will take a long time to heal from. Monterey Park is home to a large Asian American population that has enriched and continues to build up the local life and economy of the area. National ACE sends our deepest regards to the victims of the shooting, their friends and families, as well as the whole community of Monterey Park. We are also praying for a full and speedy recovery for those injured. 

Surveys show that increased violence in and targeting our communities have had extensive impacts on the mental health of Asian Americans. 36% of Asian adults say they have altered their daily schedule or routine in the past 12 months due to worries that they might be threatened or attacked (Pew Research Center, 2022). National ACE will continue to encourage measures that are not only preventative, but also support survivors in the aftermath of violent attacks to access health care, mental health resources, and street and public safety. 

“My heart breaks for the victims of the shooting at a Lunar New Year celebration in Monterey Park on Saturday. National ACE has strong ties with the small business owners in Monterey Park and we are very proud to be a part of this strong community. We thank everyone for extending their support to Monterey Park at this difficult time, and affirm our long-standing commitment to ensuring that our Asian American and Pacific Islander communities can access the highest quality of life and safety,” said Chiling Tong, President/CEO of National ACE.