State Assemblywoman Gina L. Sillitti and the Herricks Chinese Association partnered to provide a safety and self-defense webinar which had over 350 community residents registered. In light of the anti-Asian hate, bias, and violence around the country and in New York specifically, Sillitti and HCA teamed up to educate the AAPI community in Nassau County on how to protect themselves.
“I want to let my AAPI friends and residents know that what’s happening to the Asian community is disgraceful and completely un-American. I stand side by side with the AAPI community against all the hate and violence and will do all that is possible to ensure their safety and well-being in our community,” saiSillitti of District 16.
The Nassau County Third Precinct provided invaluable safety and awareness tips and information during the highly attended Tuesday evening webinar. Walking with earphones, looking at your phone, and unaware of what’s happening around you makes you a prime target.
“Situational awareness – being alert, being aware and prepared,” was a key point Officer Todd Atkins of the Homeland Security Bureau emphasized to avoid being a victim. Among other safety pointers, Third Precinct officers presented ideas on how to be a good witness, when to help others, and what weapons people can legally carry to protect themselves.
“It’s so unfortunate that we have to offer the AAPI community self-defense webinars now, but it’s paramount that we know how to defend ourselves in these uncertain, hate-filled times,” expressed Christine Liu, Co-president of HCA.
Blue Moon Taekwondo Masters Steven Ayoung and Helen Oh demonstrated helpful self-defense tactics which benefited everyone including Mabel Pau, an 80-year-old resident of New Hyde Park who volunteered for the webinar demonstration in Port Washington. As Mabel broke free from a wristlock, she commented in amazement, “learning this move is so helpful and I could do it!”
Assemblywoman Sillitti is looking forward to providing more workshops, hopefully in person, as we are all getting vaccinated and the world continues to get back to a new “normal.” We will encourage ALL our residents from all faiths and cultures to participate.
