[VT Washington, D.C.] March 16, 2025, Four years ago today, a gunman entered three Asian – owned spas in Georgia, opened fire, and killed eight people, six of whom were Asian women. The Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) and Georgia members issued the following statements:
CAPAC: “Today marks four years since a gunman senselessly murdered eight people, including six Asian women, in Atlanta, Georgia.
“We remember their names: Xiaojie ‘Emily’ Tan, Daoyou Feng, Hyun Jung (Kim) Grant, Suncha Kim, Soon Chung Park, Yong Ae Yue, Paul Andre Michels, and Delaina Ashley Yaun González.
“They were beloved members of their families and communities, many of whom immigrated to this country to build a better life. But their lives were tragically cut short in a targeted attack that stemmed from the rise of anti – Asian and xenophobic rhetoric during the COVID – 19 pandemic.
“The pain and grief from this devastating loss is still felt by many in our community. CAPAC honors the memory of those we lost in Atlanta by standing up to anti – Asian hate and fighting for a future where Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders can live safe, dignified lives.”
Rep. Nikema Williams (GA – 05): “Four years ago, Atlanta and the nation watched in horror as hate crimes took place at three spas. The families and friends of the eight victims remain in my prayers to this day, as our communities are still mending. No matter your race, ethnicity, or gender, everyone has the right to live without fear of violence. Every day – especially today – I honor the victims’ legacy by working to stop hatred in any form. Working with the members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, we will end anti – Asian hate.”
Rep. Lucy McBath (GA – 06): “As we mark another painful anniversary of the Atlanta spa shootings, we remember the eight lives senselessly taken in an act of anti – Asian hate and their families who were devastated by loss. Four years later, our responsibility remains clear: we must take bold action to end gun violence and eradicate the vitriol that fuels tragedies like these. We must stand together – not just in remembrance, but in resolve – to work toward a future where no more lives are lost to violence and hate.”
