In January 2023, an Asian student was brutally attacked, highlighting the rise of anti-Asian sentiment in society. This event prompted the creation of a video that not only addressed the aftermath of the attack but also showcased the resilience of the Asian community. The video emphasized how music has become a unifying force in the fight against hate.
Featuring advocates like Helen Zia, founder of the Vincent Chin Institute, the video featured personal stories, community responses, and the creation of “Silent Theater,” a musical piece born out of defiance and hope. Through these efforts, the video underscored the ongoing battle against racism and the importance of speaking up and standing together.
Direct Relief’s Fund for Health Equity played a crucial role in these efforts by supporting community-led initiatives that overcome systemic barriers to well-being. The fund aimed to address disparities in health outcomes by providing funding to organizations across the country. Direct Relief’s funding helped establish a network to swiftly respond to hate incidents and funded community outreach and resilience-building activities.
Since its launch in 2021, Direct Relief has provided over $50 million in grants to more than 150 organizations throughout the United States. These grants have supported various initiatives aimed at addressing health disparities and promoting equity in communities nationwide.