WASHINGTON, D.C. – Asian and Pacific Islander American Vote (APIAVote) issued the following statement in response to President Biden issuing a new Executive Order to curb gun violence and expand background checks.
“APIAVote commends the Biden Administration in taking decisive action against the rising tide of gun violence by increasing the number of background checks before firearm sales and prioritizing the effective use of ‘red flag’ laws to keep guns out of the hands of those who pose danger to themselves or those around them,” said Christine Chen, Executive Director of Asian and Pacific Islander American Vote.
“That President Biden announced his executive order during his visit in Monterey Park is significant as it comes at a time when our communities are still grieving over the tragic losses that occurred over Lunar New Year and as we continue to face increased anti-Asian hate and violence. According to our Asian American Voter Survey, 77% of Asian Americans are supportive of stricter gun laws, and we applaud the President for taking a significant step in the right direction on this critical issue affecting not only AAPI communities, but communities all across America.”
“We are particularly supportive of the Executive Order’s directive to require members of the President’s cabinet to develop a proposal on how the federal government can better support communities after a mass shooting. When tragedy like a weather event impacts a community, there is a government mechanism to meet the needs of the community. This should be true in the event of a mass shooting as well. We encourage the President’s cabinet to keep culturally and linguistically competent resources top of mind in crafting a governmental response, so that AAPI communities are not left behind.”
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About APIAVote: Asian and Pacific Islander American Vote (APIAVote) is a leading national nonpartisan organization that works with partners to mobilize Asian American Pacific Islanders (AAPI) in electoral and civic participation. APIAVote envisions a world that is inclusive, fair, and collaborative, and where AAPI communities are self-determined, empowered, and engaged. See our website for more information at https://www.apiavote.org/
