06/03/2020
Dear all,
I hope you and your loved ones are safe and together--I'd also like to take this time to thank you for your continued support.
I founded the IAMNOTAVIRUS campaign, which began as a personal portrait project in my studio, to address the racism and violence against Asian Americans during COVID-19.
In the first week of March, before sending our oldest child to Pre-K, my wife and I reminded him that he was as American as anyone else and that he belonged. Fortunately, as a photographer, my family and I have interacted personally with people from all different backgrounds, political views, and occupations, who treat us with love and respect. I have seen us at our best and truly believe we are all guided by our better angels.
Many in our community don't feel loved nor safe. It is our job, as neighbors, to support them through these difficult times.The names of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylors are added to a cruel list. Their family members gain membership to a club no one wants entry to. And before we can even mourn the loss of one innocent life, we are forced to learn a new name, David McAtee.
This breaks my heart. Black lives matter and our black community deserves love, security, support and overwhelming human kindness.
My team and I have put together this panel on how Asian Americans and others in our community can continue to participate and support Black, Brown, and Native communities affected by police violence. It will be be live tomorrow June 4th at 630 EST/330 PST. We are proudly hosting it with our friends , , and .
Space is limited and we are near capacity. If you have questions for the panelist please text me.
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_q_zY42B1R4KkGnh9zBd-0g?fbclid=IwAR2IDIBIa_OyM4ZzCC-7s2eoV-KGiI9FDlmXF3Y-EHnXGlv0sLqz0-JZ0LY
Continue to stay safe and together. I love each and all of you.
Mike