The people that gathered Saturday at Gandhi Square in Davie stood up for the victims and families of Asian Americans in Atlanta — turning their fear into a call for action. The group condemned anti-Asian racism and urged vigilance in the wake of increasing anti-Asian violence.
In front of a statue of the global peace icon Mahatma Gandhi, the vigil was a platform for local officials throughout South Florida.
WLRN is here for you, even when life is unpredictable. Local journalists are working hard to keep you informed on the latest developments across South Florida. Please support this vital work. Become a WLRN member today. Thank you.
Davie Mayor Judy Paul welcomed the masked group.
"Welcome to this sanctuary for peace and love and nonviolence," Paul said.
Of the eight people killed in last week's shootings, six were women of Asian descent.
Hallandale Beach Commissioner Sabrina Javellana spoke about her Filipino heritage and the need for more unity — especially during the pandemic.
"The real virus here is white supremacy and racism that's been growing, so it's really important that we call it out whenever we see it," Javellana said.
Winnie Tang helped organize the gathering. She's heavily involved in the community and is currently the vice president of the Asian American Federation of Florida and the President of Florida Asian Services.
As the vigil ended, some people laid flowers and candles at the statue of Gandhi's feet. After a group prayer some sang the hymn "Amazing Grace."
Tang said she had been watching the rise in anti-Asian violence on the West Coast and in the Northeast but the attacks in Atlanta were a little closer to home.
"When we hear the one happening in Atlanta and we all talk about — it's too close for comfort for our communities," said Tang. "And then we're only a few hundred miles away."
