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Statement by Robert Gebbia, CEO from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

March 19, 2021 – 1 min read

By Robert Gebbia, AFSP Chief Executive Officer

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NEW YORK (MARCH 19, 2021) – Since the beginning of the coronavirus, this country has seen an increase in racially motivated crime against Asian Americans. Today the Chief Executive Officer of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Robert Gebbia released this statement condemning these racially motivated actions:

“The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention condemns racism in all forms, and we are actively working to eliminate injustice. As an organization, we acknowledge that institutional racism, blatant discrimination, and unconscious bias impact the daily lives of Asian American families, and that this also directly impacts their mental health. We are committed to addressing the racism and racially motivated attacks, as well as supporting the mental health of those who may have been targeted due to their cultural heritage.   

AFSP remains dedicated to addressing mental health and suicide prevention needs within underrepresented communities and we will continue to use our national platform to protect and support the mental health of the Asian American community. We all have a role to play and I invite individuals, communities, organizations, and leaders to join us in condemning these racially motivated attacks.

However, I am also hopeful and encouraged by the way some communities have come together to support one another in the face of these violent acts. Until everyone is safe from the effects of racism, the mental health of many will continue to be jeopardized. I hope those in the Asian American community feel supported and that the voices of those supporting this community drown out the misguided aggressors in our society.”

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental health through education and community programs, develops suicide prevention through research and advocacy, and provides support for those affected by suicide. Led by CEO Robert Gebbia and headquartered in New York, with an Advocacy office in Washington, DC, AFSP has local chapters in all 50 states with programs and events nationwide. Learn more about AFSP in its latest Annual Report, and join the conversation on suicide prevention by following AFSP on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

 

Contact: Alexis O’Brien, 347-826-3577, aobrien@afsp.org