Joint Statement from MMANC, I-NAPA, Cal-ICMA & MMASC
Condemning All Acts of Violence and Racism Against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders
In our mission to support the professional development of local government leadersand adhere to the highest ethical standards, the Municipal Management Association of Northern California (MMANC), International Network of Asian Public Administrators(I-NAPA), California International City/County Management Association (Cal-ICMA)and Municipal Management Association of Southern California (MMASC) condemn all acts of violence and racism against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.
We recognize the deep history and contributions the Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) community has made in shaping America and California. AAPIs are the fastest growing racial and ethnic group in the U.S. with more than 22 million individuals nationwide and nearly five million in the state of California. Recent violent acts have threatened the lives of AAPIs partly because of xenophobic rhetoric that falsely connects the COVID-19 pandemic with Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.
The local government management profession is founded on a code of ethics that demands we serve the best interests of all and act with integrity so that we may earn the trust of those we serve.
We believe that all members of the AAPI community are to be treated with dignity and equity. We understand that our duty as local government leaders means leading our organizations in a just and equitable way. We cannot ignore nor deny the discrimination of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and we will do all we can to ensure our communities are safe and equitable for all.
MMANC, I-NAPA, Cal-ICMA and MMASC remain committed to supporting equity and inclusion within the local government profession.
Below are a few resources and organizations for you to take action:
Legal Resources: www.napaba.org/page/HateCrimeResources
Asian American Racial Justice Toolkit: www.asianamtoolkit.org
Reporting and Latest News: stopaapihate.org
“Speak Up” strategies: www.learningforjustice.org/magazine/how-to-respond-to-coronavirus-racism
