Providing for Consideration of H. Res. Condemning the Horrific Shootings in Atlanta, Georgia, on March and for Other Purposes

Floor Speech

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Ms. MATSUI. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman for yielding.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the rule providing for consideration of Representative Chu's resolution condemning the horrific shootings in Atlanta and reaffirming the House's commitment to combating hate and violence against the AAPI community.

Earlier today, I joined Speaker Pelosi, Representatives Chu and Meng, and others at an event to mark the importance of the steps we are taking on the House floor today. Together, Representatives Chu and Meng's bills make a statement of commitment to a sacred American value: celebrating our diversity as a force against hate and discrimination.

As we honor AAPI Heritage Month, we stand amidst a reckoning on racial justice and discrimination. We must be intentional about how we uplift our voices, how we listen, and how we ensure dignity and respect throughout our communities.

As the past few years have shown, hateful rhetoric can easily spiral into scapegoating and violence. Xenophobia and blame have proliferated, from the highest levels of government to our local communities. This cannot be overlooked. I have shared my own family's story of the consequences of inaction.

The fear of ``the other'' is nothing new, but it has been chipping away at our social conscience for far too long. This is what we are working to root out. We must stop it at the source with a united front.

Today's vote is a reminder that our country is capable of growth; that this legislative body will not sit in silence while a community suffers racism and hatred. Future generations are listening, and together, Americans are standing up and speaking out.

It has been encouraging to see the cohesion amongst Asian Americans and all Americans in the fight against AAPI hate. I have been heartened to see individuals, leaders, and organizations come together to help heal our communities from these historical traumas and move forward united.

I am proud to support this rule and this bill, and I urge all of my colleagues to do the same.

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