City Councilor Lan Sena Meets with Asian American Community Members and Business Owners

On Tuesday, March 17, 2020, City Councilors Lan Sena and Council President Pat Davis met with members of the Asian American community to discuss and offer support to those effected by recent harassment. Over the last several days there have been reported incidents of discrimination against Asian Americans related to COVID-19.

“I wanted to hear from the community and ensure them that I myself, and we as a community, denounce these discriminatory acts,” said Councilor Sena. “Asian Americans are not more likely to spread COVID-19 and the xenophobia and racism needs to stop.”

The meeting included the City of Albuquerque’s City Attorney’s Office, the Office of Equity and Inclusion, and the Albuquerque Police Department. Mimy Singvilay, owner of Asian Noodle Bar, hosted the meeting and invited other Asian American community members and downtown small business owners.

“The main message we want to express is that viruses don’t discriminate and neither should we,” said Councilor Sena.

Councilor Davis added, “We are grateful for Councilor Sena and these Asian community leaders for building stronger relationships with our city. Discrimination is against the law and should be reported to the Office of Civil Rights. This type of stigma will drive suspected cases underground and aid the spread of the virus.”

Discrimination is against the law and should be reported to the City of Albuquerque Office of Civil Rights. If you are a victim of or see discrimination like this occur, report it to 311 or the Office of Civil Rights at 505-768-4595 or email [email protected].

For more information on the Office of Civil Rights, visit: https://www.cabq.gov/civilrights

For more information on the COVID-19 virus  in multiple languages, visit: https://www.cabq.gov/environmentalhealth/news/city-of-albuquerque-coronavirus-faqs