Asian Resources Inc. included in multi-million dollar grant to fight hate crimes

In an announcement today by Gov. Gavin Newsom, a grant of $30.3 million has been distributed to several groups statewide to address hate crimes. Among the recipients is Sacramento-based Asian Resources Inc.

“It comes as no surprise that as the flames of hatred and bigotry have been stoked in our society, acts of cowardice and violence have increased at an alarming rate,” Newsom said. “In California, we are investing millions to prevent this hate from taking hold in our communities. We simply will not tolerate intolerance.”

As part of the grant, ARI received $1 million. ARI’s Executive Director is Elk Grove City Councilmember and 10th District California Assembly candidate Stephanie Nguyen.

Commenting on the grant was California State Senator Dr. Richard Pan (D – Sacramento), who, as a member of the Asian American and Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus, noted it was part of the $166.5 million API Equity Budget sponsored by the group in last year’s state budget.

“These grants will support AAPI communities in all corners of California struggling with the rise in hate crimes, and we continue to be grateful for the Governor’s support that made these impactful community investments possible,” Pan said.

These grants will bolster local services to prevent hate crimes and support those who are victims. They included:

• Direct services such as mental health and complementary health, wellness, and community healing, legal assistance, navigation, and case management;
• Prevention services to deepen understanding and empathy, youth development, senior safety and ambassador/escort programs, individual and community safety planning, bystander training and other de-escalation techniques;
• Intervention services for outreach and training on the elements of hate incidents and hate crimes, services for survivors, and community-centered alternative approaches to repair harm from hate incidents and hate crimes.

Nguyen did not respond to an inquiry seeking comment on the grant and ARI’s expenditure plans.