Unity in Diversity: Navigating Cultural Identity and Strengthening Communities
In the cozy confines of our suburban home, authentic influences of Asian culture were scarce. Growing up in Uniondale in 1970, census data revealed a near absence of the Asian population (0.5% Asians vs. 20% non-Hispanic blacks) in my small world. My understanding of Asian culture was limited to what I glimpsed on TV, the occasional classmate, and our yearly family dinners in NY Chinatown. However, Hollywood’s portrayal of ethnicity has often been inaccurate and insensitive, leaving me with little connection or affinity.
The recent surge of violence against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) left me grappling to comprehend the circumstances. Yet, history tells a different story. Since the late 1800s, when they migrated to the US as a response to the demand for cheap labor, the AAPI community has faced aggression and oppression. They endured some of the most restrictive immigration laws and unjust internment during WWII. Shockingly, a recent report from Stop AAPI Hate revealed nearly 3,800 hate incidents reported nationwide over the last year, with women being 2.3 times more likely to be victims.
Privilege knows no color; it’s a force that bullies communities outside its own. Dividing communities serves the powerful’s agenda, and this fact is evident in the irresponsible associations between the AAPI community and the Coronavirus. Such rhetoric, perpetuated by the former administration and those who should know better, has rendered vulnerable senior citizens in this population targets of random attacks.
Our hearts ache for the victims of the Atlanta massacre, particularly the innocent souls who toiled in low-wage jobs, unrecognized until the tragedy. At We Achieve Foundation (WAF), we stand united in our commitment to preserving dignity, humanity, and respect. In the spirit of the Greek philosopher Plato’s words, “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a harder battle.” Together, we can make a difference and shape a world that stands for unity and compassion.
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Today, we are asking you to become a founding member of this philanthropic community. Can you assist in realizing this vision by donating whatever funds, in-kind materials (e.g., campaign wish list items), and goods (e.g., cars, boats, motorcycles) you have available? Without a doubt, no contribution is too small as we partner to meet our goal of creating a community service-based platform to build a better tomorrow for our youth. #WAF #WEACHIEVEFOUNDATION #WAF2021 #SOCIALJUSTICE #JOHNLEWIS #HR4 #GOODTROUBLE
Raynard Gainey
President and founder
Raynard Gainey has spent the last 25 years aiding the underserved. His experiences, education, and employment in human services have amplified his connections with the underprivileged.