Refugee Congress mourns the lives lost during Monterey Park Lunar New Year Celebrations

MONTEREY PARK, CALIF. - 10 people were killed and 10 more injured on the night of January 21 in a shooting during Lunar New Year celebrations in Monterey Park. Refugee Congress mourns the lives lost during this important holiday - a time that was meant for community-building and hope for the New Year.

"We’ve witnessed unprecedented racism, scapegoating, violence and murders targeted at our Asian community over the past three years by those outside our community. Most recent, we’re experiencing the violence from within. During these challenging times, we should mourn and unite. It’s even more crucial that we demonstrate outward support for our community as well as other communities that continue to be impacted by hatred and violence." Nga Vương-Sandoval, Honorary Delegate for Colorado.

“Our work will continue to support brothers and sisters throughout our country to build our communities,” said Clara Hart, former President of Refugee Congress.

An estimated 2 billion people across the globe celebrate Lunar New Year every year. In the US, celebrations of Lunar New Year are crucial for preserving cultural traditions.

Refugee Congress Delegates have fled violence and instability, and we know the importance of cultural touchstones like Lunar New Year. We stand together with communities and families to remember the lives lost and condemn this violence.