Since the mid-1800s, Asian American and Pacific Islanders in the U.S. have experienced marginalization to varying degrees. The substantial increases in Asian American hate crimes during the COVID pandemic, including the recent murders in Atlanta, are just the most recent examples of the dangers of that marginalization.

As we begin Asian Pacific Heritage Month, we recognize how far we, as a nation, still have to go as we continue the work of building a “more perfect union.”  

We acknowledge that speaking against injustices in the midst of crises or hardships, especially from a position of leadership, is at times difficult. At such times, we appreciate leaders who choose to speak out with courage, compassion and candor. We thank the leaders in the Forest Service who leaned into our organizational values of interdependence, safety and diversity. By speaking out during recent events, know that you met our pain with words, and it made a difference. Chief Vicki Christiansen, Leslie Weldon and Claudette Fernandez, your words, articles and actions are examples of true leadership that are deeply appreciated at a personal and professional level. Furthermore, thank you, Secretary Vilsack, for engaging in an AAPI listening session and unreservedly condemning AAPI hate.

What’s next?  We all can lead from where we are, and like those named above, we ask you to stand up as well. Our Forest Service mission is antithetical to bullying and discrimination, and we can take tangible steps to help end discrimination and hate, inside and outside of our agency.  

Secondly, we must hope. We are hopeful that recent conversations and solidarity with allies results in more unity across our nation. Please share that hope—be a part of something larger that combats bias, helps end discrimination and raises up and trains better leaders.   

We have not reached the end of the journey, but thanks to the work of community members and allies, we are also not starting at the very beginning. Our community members and our leaders at the highest levels have spoken out in ways that have nurtured hope, and we thank you all. We encourage all Forest Service employees to lend your voices in resisting racial prejudice and hate, instilling hope within your communities.  

As we begin to lean into May’s observance of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage month, let us as a larger Forest Service community reflect and act in ways that are in alignment with who we are. 

Thank You,  

Asian Pacific American Employee Association

For more specifics on how to get involved, reach out to APAEA at SM.FS.apaea@usda.gov.