Dear John,

Our hearts are broken this week over the news of the spa shootings in Georgia. It has unveiled what we’ve known to be true about the rise in anti-Asian violence since the start of the pandemic. The reports of the mass shooting are all over the place in their analysis of the deeply intertwined connection between racism and misogyny. We urge you to read both the New York Times and Teen Vogue articles at the top of the digest.

We stand in solidarity with Asian American and Pacific Islander communities & rise together against white supremacy, misogyny, and anti-Asian violence in all its forms. We stand with immigrants, blue-collar workers, sex workers, and for a world that is safe for all of us. 

Here’s what we’re reading, watching, and listening to this week:  
 

1. Atlanta

Meaningful coverage on the heartbreaking Atlanta shootings. Read it in the NY Times. 

2. Atlanta II

Here is a must-read op-ed by Sarah Li that goes deeper into the sexism, racism, classism, and fetishization behind the shooting rampage. Read it here. 

3. Solidarity

We believe in radical solidarity. See this piece to #StopAsianHate co-authored by Keith Ellison.

4. Grammys

The awards show was a reminder that the whole world is watching Minneapolis and praying for justice for George Floyd. ICYMI: I Can’t Breathe by H.E.R. won song of the year. Watch this powerful clip of The Bigger Picture by Lil Baby and the full song here.  

5. Reimagine Safety

The Washington Post is diving deep into the work that must be done to reimagine safety after the murder of George Floyd. Read, bookmark, and share the latest piece in the series.

6. Mitra Jalali

We’re big fans of the St. Paul City Council super star. Read about her extraordinary work for the multiracial working class in the Star Tribune.  

7. Murals

In the aftermath of the murder of George Floyd, artists took to expressing their grief, rage, and hope on plywood boards of shuttered or recovering businesses. Learn about the incredible work of Leesa Kelly and Kenda Zellner-Smith in preserving this precious art.  

8. Future Friendship

This warm, poetic piece by Saeed Jones is a must-read. Get into your feelings about friendship in our uncertain future.   

9. Squishmallows

Cute, soft, and squishy. What’s not to love? Find out the magic behind these sweet plush toys.   

10. Spring Equinox

The spring equinox – the time of year when we get equal amounts of day and night - is Saturday morning. Check out these ideas for rituals to celebrate. 

That’s a wrap. Enjoy the sun this weekend.
- Kenza Hadj-Moussa and LyLy Vang-Yang