One Year

March 11th was the one-year anniversary of the pandemic which brought life as we knew it to a screeching halt. We have lost loved ones. It has challenged us mentally, physically, and emotionally. We have seen our favorite restaurants and businesses shut down; neighbors, friends and family lose jobs; long-lines at food banks; schools closing; and our streets becoming quiet.

March 13th was the one-year anniversary of Breonna Taylor being killed by police in her own home. We must continue to raise our voices against violence and police brutality and to speak up for racial justice.

COVID has brought fear, fueled by lies and racist rhetoric, which has caused a wave of hate crimes against the Asian American community. Elders and young people alike have had to walk in fear as hate-fueled violence and speech has been rampant across the country and within our own city. This weekend, the Seattle community demonstrated against the rising violence towards the Asian American community.

With COVID, we have been asked to stay home, wear masks, and take care of one another. It has been a year for all of us to find new ways to reconnect and dig deep within ourselves to find strength and hope. It has also been a time that calls us to resist fear and be brave in our actions; stand up when we hear hate speech or see violence; engage in conversations with one another around race; and work to address inequity, so that we build a community where everyone has opportunity.   

We invite you to join our team in making our community safe and welcoming to all. Here are some ways you can help:

  • Participate in Bystander Training to stop Anti-Asian American and Xenophobic Harassment through Hollaback!

  • Talk with your family and friends about why diversity, equity, and inclusion are important.

  • Read books written by authors who are Black, Indigenous, or People of Color which support your journey to be anti-racist.

  •   Support local restaurants, markets, and businesses that are owned by folks who are Black, Indigenous, and People of Color.

Take care,

Jen Muzia, Executive Director

Ballard Food Bank