BALTIMORE, MD (Monday, May 3, 2021) — Mayor Brandon M. Scott released the following statement on Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, which is commemorated in the month of May:

"Every Baltimorean should take a moment this May to celebrate the cultural traditions, ancestry, languages, and unique experiences represented across Baltimore’s ethnic groups from Asia and the Pacific Islands. As we recognize their achievements and contributions, we must also acknowledge the increased racism and xenophobia that Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have faced as a result of COVID-19. According to the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism, hate crimes against Asian Americans surged 150 percent in 2020, with a majority of those hate crimes committed against women.

My administration has no tolerance for racially motivated acts of discrimination and hate crimes. I remain committed to ensuring that City resources and services are accessible and inclusive of all Baltimoreans, regardless of race, ethnic background, immigrant status or language. I call on Baltimoreans to continue to stand in solidarity with our Asian American and Pacific Islander neighbors against xenophobia, gender-based violence, and discrimination. Let’s stand united against bigotry and #StopAsianHate."