I’ve had a few people asking how they can help those in the Asian American community who are steadily dealing with attacks and hate.

A lot of these “attackers” start small with language and behaviors. They often happen around others who may not know how to say anything, or feel uncomfortable stepping in, or even just whole-heartedly approve altogether.

We need to recognize that these small behaviors build upon one another over time and can lead to more dangerous or risky situations. They don’t just happen as an isolated incident.

Bystander Intervention is a great training that teaches those who are considered “not active” in the situation to be more empowered through a variety of strategies to help those in need. This is one of my favorite courses to teach/offer because it gives people REAL Ways to help in ways they feel most comfortable doing so.

If you can’t take a course or learn skills like these, I think the bare minimum is to be aware that many of those who are attacked are alone and seen as “easy prey.” If you’re out and see someone who is alone and seems like they are being taunted, please, just tell the “perpetrator” to back off. This small act could help stop someone from being harmed.

A lot of Asians are scared right now and fearful of others. They are worried that people are staring at them, that people will harm them.

If you see us out, please just smile at us.

Be kind, be courteous. Just be a decent person and help us to know that people still care and love one another.

Thank you to all of those who are asking questions, who want to learn, and who are genuinely concerned about all humans.