"Drive Out The Hate' caravan, rally held in Elk Grove

Elk Grove Vice Mayor Stephanie Nguyen. | 

A protest organized by Sacramento-based Asian Resources Inc. was held this morning in Elk Grove to condemn the increase in anti-Asian crimes and hate speech.

The 75-plus vehicle caravan started at the Pavillion area of the Elk Grove Regional Park and made its way to Elk Grove's District56 parking lot on Big Horn Road.

Along with ARI executive director and Elk Grove Vice Mayor Stephanie Nguyen, local elected officials including Elk Grove Councilmembers Pat Hume and Darren Suen attended the rally along with a representative for Rep. Ami Bera. Elk Grove Mayor Bobbie Singh-Allen was unable to attend but issued a statement of support (see below).

Featured speakers included former NBA and Sacramento Kings player Harold Presley and KDEE radio personality Jay King. Additionally, representatives from over a dozen advocacy and business organizations who co-sponsored the rally spoke in solidarity to condemn the nationwide increase in anti-Asian crime and hate speech.

The two-hour event ended just after 11 a.m. and drew over 200 people.

Statement from Elk Grove Mayor Bobbie Singh-Allen

I love seeing Elk Grove come together to stand in solidarity for our community.  I saw many of you earlier this morning as the caravan kicked off. Due to a previous commitment, I am not with you for this rally. As your Mayor, I am proud to say we are Elk Grove strong!

As an Asian American woman, I have seen the ugly face of hate crimes. Ten years ago two Sikh men were murdered in our city during their daily walk. Their murders are still unsolved.

I strongly condemn hate crimes and support legislation introduced by Assemblymember Cooper that creates stronger punishment for hate crimes and Attorney General designee Rob Bonta’s legislation that provides more resources for hate crime victims.

Let us remain vigilant and stand up against hate.

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