A few weeks ago, KYCC (Koreatown Youth Community Center) posted a photo of their newest billboard, placed in partnership with Amazon Studios and KAFLA (Korean American Federation LA) . It was a billboard that read "#StopAsianHate" and could be seen across major streets in Los Angeles. With vibrant colors and many symbolism signifying peace, the billboard was hard to miss in many of LA's busiest streets.
It has been incredibly rough for many communities in the past two years to say the least. One of the communities severely affected by the pandemic was the Asian American community. The AAPI (Asian American Pacific Islander) community has faced racism and hate crimes at an alarmingly increasing rate during in the past year. The bigotry and hate has even spread onto hurt members of other communities, as a Hispanic senior was assaulted in the past month because she was mistaken as an Asian. During this year, it has been a challenging time for diverse communities, but admist the trouble, communities were able to find heroes, allies, friends, and bridges.
Koreatown Youth Center has been the heart for the Los Angeles community. Serving the diverse ethnic communities, families, at-risk youth and community causes, KYCC has dedicated years providing programs and services making positive impact in the vast area. It was no surprise when the organization stepped up to raise awareness and fight the rising anti-Asian sentiment and hate crimes. During this time, they had partnered with Korean American Federation Los Angeles, who had also been assisting Korean American families and seniors financially and physically affected by the pandemic, for a successful rally in Koreatown to #StopAAPIHate. After thousands marched on March 27th and an inspiring speech by journalist Lisa Ling, many were moved and empowered including Amazon Studios, who called KYCC to partner in a campaign to set up 3 billboards across Los Angeles.
Billboards located in -
786B Venice Blvd and Sherbourne Dr. (East),
3547 Abbot Kinney Blvd between Washington Blvd. and Venice Blvd. (South)
764B Olympic Blvd. and La Cienega Blvd. (East)
KYCC Director of External Affairs Steve Kang, a 1.5 generation Korean-American living in Koreatown, said that he felt "both surprised and grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with a world renowned company - Amazon Studios."
"I also felt a sense of empowerment about the fact that the issue of #StopAsianHate is being heard and organizations like Amazon Studios are willing to help promote this important campaign," says Kang.
Steve added more to the story behind the photo posted on KYCC's Instagram.
How did you first feel when you found out you would be working with Amazon Studios in this #StopAsianHate campaign?
"I was both surprised and grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with a world renowned company - Amazon Studios. I also felt a sense of empowerment about the fact that the issue of #StopAsianHate is being heard and organizations like Amazon Studios are willing to help promote this important campaign."
Is there any meaning or symbolism depicted in the artwork itself?
"The artwork conveys a sense of peace and tranquility while asking our neighbors to reject all forms of hate. Many of the unprecedented attacks targeted the seniors in our community and we wanted to convey a strong message in a creative manner to ask everyone to help prevent future attacks against the AAPI community."
What were the reasons behind choosing the three billboard locations?
"Amazon Studios chose the three locations within the greater Los Angeles area. I especially appreciate that the locations are outside of the Asian American communities."
Why do you think Amazon Studios chose to work with KYCC and KAFLA for the #StopAsianHate campaign in Los Angeles?
"There are many organizations working on this campaign; however, I believe Amazon Studios saw that both KAFLA and KYCC are organizing grassroots events for the community to participate on this important initiative."
I was actually a KYCC kid myself growing up, and I would go to the building by Wilton and 7th everyday during summer. It meant a lot to me to find friends and learn, especially because my parents were always out to work. What does KYCC mean to the Los Angeles community?
"KYCC has evolved over the years and we provide a comprehensive array of direct social services to the children and families of Koreatown. I am especially proud that we continue to provide essential services to low income families, seniors, and businesses to help empower individuals to succeed. We believe in helping people thrive and we are grateful for the opportunity to work for the Koreatown community."
As an organization found in Koreatown and the heart of LA’s youth community. What are your team’s thoughts and response to the rise of anti-Asian hate in the community
"As a proud 1.5 generation Korean American, I have often felt like a perpetual foreigner in my own country. Asian American issues are rarely at the forefront of American politics and the rise of anti-Asian hate motivated me to rise up and advocate for our diverse communities. Additionally, many staff at KYCC felt compelled to participate in activities that liftup the voices of our community for better representation and equal access to resources."
Any last words you have for the LA community and youth?
"KYCC's value statement is the word respect. I believe that this word transcends politics and racial divisions in our community. We will continue to provide services to those in need and we ask for your partnership in helping to make Koreatown a beautiful place to work, live, and play."
Koreatown is not just a town full of Korean-Americans, KBBQ spots and Korean culture. It is a place where multi-ethnic communities live, coexist and build a better community for the future generations. It is perhaps one of the most diverse areas in the nation. As #AAPIHeritageMonth continues, it is important to know about the many figures and organizations like KYCC and their contributions to providing a better community for the diverse groups in Los Angeles.
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