Press Releases

Statement from Commissioner Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez on Recent Violent Anti-Asian Attacks

NEW YORK (March 17, 2021) - "The recent attacks against Asians across the country, including attacks against older Asians here in our City, are unconscionable and a sobering reminder of the rise of anti-Asian hate in our communities. We all need to stand with our Asian American and Pacific Islander brothers and sisters and act," said New York City Department for the Aging Commissioner Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez. "If you see something, say something. If you are a victim or witness to a crime, immediately call 911. The NYC Department for the Aging's Crime Victim Resource Center can also provide information and assistance. Contact us by dialing 212-AGING-NYC (212-244-6469)."

CALL TO ACTION: Discrimination and harassment on the basis of race, national origin, age, and disability is illegal under the New York City Human Rights Law. Help us raise awareness by viewing the #StopAsianHate toolkit of public education resources from the NYC Commission on Human Rights, the Mayor’s Office for the Prevention of Hate Crimes, and the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs.

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The New York City Department for the Aging works to eliminate ageism and ensure the dignity and quality of life of New York City's diverse 1.6 million older adults. DFTA also works to support caregivers through service, advocacy, and education. DFTA is the largest area agency on aging in the U.S.

Media contact:
DFTA
Dina Montes
212-602-4153