|
We, the Asian American Press Club of the U.S. condemn the wrong that had been done to one of our own AAPCUS family member, our president Nicanor “Nikki” Arriola and his wife. On the afternoon of February 1st, 2023, while on a leisure trip at the Capitol premises in Sacramento, California, both he and his wife were attacked and beaten by a stranger.
The initial premise is that the perpetrator was after his camera equipment. As we all know, Nikki’s camera represents his profession, personhood and his livelihood. He did what any human being would have done. He protected his prized possession with his life. While wearing his media badge and fighting with all his might until he couldn’t, he dropped his camera giving the perpetrator the ultimate opportunity to take it but he did not. Video recording taken by a credible witness shows them leaving the equipment behind as they drove off in their getaway car missing only by a hairline Nikki’s wife. The official police report has not been released thus the delay in providing this statement. We feel however that we cannot wait any longer and promise to do what we can for this couple while we await any formal charges to be filed against the assailant. We solidly stand behind Nikki Arriola and will do all we can to give him the justice he deserves. Together with the Roques and the Lai family, Nikki and his wife now become the face of victims of hate incidents that have turned into hate crimes. We thank you all for your anticipated support in any shape or form during these trying times. We appeal that you stand with the Roques on April 4, 2023 at the Van Nuys Court courtyard area and continue to scream loud and proud “ Justice for the Roques”. “Katarungan para kay Nikki at Julienne at sa lahat ng ating kababayan dito sa America”! Let us also include Cecile Lai and her son from Queens, NY who suffered a similar fate just a few days ago. They had a successful rally at Queens last Friday. To this we say “Tama Na” in the most peaceful yet firm way that we can. #EducateDontHate” and “StopAAPIHate” |
How To Report a Hate Crime E-Booklet
for Los Angeles & Orange County in English 
| ||