The Community Comes Together: “Spread the Virus of Love”
Westporter Rosie Jon speaks to the crowd of over 100 community members on love, and its need in society, during this morning’s protest against AAPI (Asian American Pacific Islander) hate. “We need to spread the virus of love”, Jon said before asking the crowd to bow their heads in self-reflection. Jon’s message visibly resonated with the audience of adults and children from all backgrounds, with tears flowing from the eyes of many as she spoke.
The protests came after the recent murders of members of the AAIP community in Georgia. This past year has seen an influx of anti-asian rhetoric and hate crimes; their racist foundations coming from the false narratives surrounding the coronavirus crisis. Today’s peaceful protest featured local, state, and federal leaders alongside high schoolers, adults, and other community members.