On February 25, 2026, the Asian American Bar Association of New York (AABANY), together with the Asian American Law Fund of New York (AALFNY), the Coalition of Asian Pacific Americans (CAPA), and the Filipino American Lawyers Association of New York (FALA NY), joined the Philippine Consulate General in New York for a screening of Voices Against Anti-Asian Hate. The documentary, produced by AABANY and AALFNY, shares the experiences of individuals and families affected by anti-Asian violence in New York and highlights the legal and community responses that followed.
Philippine Consul General Senen Mangalile opened the evening by emphasizing the importance of confronting hate through unity and truth, thanking AABANY and AALFNY for documenting the community’s experiences. As he reflected on the documentary’s purpose, he reminded attendees that hate cannot be fought with more hate, but by showing that it has no basis or merit.
The film featured deeply personal stories from Justin Go, father of Michelle Go; Sungkon Lee, father of Christina Yuna Lee; and Noel Quintana, a survivor of a violent subway slashing to his face. Their accounts highlighted the lasting impact of anti-Asian violence, the challenges victims face in seeking recognition and support, and the critical role of pro bono legal advocacy.
Following the screening, a panel discussion moderated by AABANY Executive Director Yang Chen featured Noel Quintana, U.S. Commission on Civil Rights Commissioner Glenn D. Magpantay, and Groombridge Wu Co-Founder and Partner Jennifer H. Wu. Panelists reflected on the ongoing presence of anti-Asian hate, the cultural barriers that sometimes prevent victims from speaking out, and the complexities of representing victims navigating trauma, media attention, and systemic barriers.
Throughout the discussion, speakers emphasized the importance of solidarity and coalition-building with other communities confronting hate and discrimination. The evening concluded with closing remarks from AALFNY President Sylvia Chin, who highlighted AALFNY’s Anti-Asian Violence Task Force, scholarship programs, and AABANY’s ongoing pro bono initiatives supporting the community.
The program ended with a reception where attendees continued reflecting on the documentary’s message and the ongoing work needed to combat anti-Asian hate.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the Co-Sponsors who supported the screening:
Asian American Law Fund of New York (AALFNY)
Coalition of Asian Pacific Americans (CAPA)
Filipino American Lawyers Association of New York (FALA NY)
Philippine Consulate General
We extend our sincere gratitude to the Community Partners who promoted the screening:
Asian American/Asian Research Institute (AAARI)
Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund (AALDEF)
Chinatown Partnership
Chinese Progressive Association (CPA)
Pan Asian Repertory Theatre
Potluck Asian America
We thank the nearly 100 attendees who came, representing different facets of the New York community, despite the difficult travel conditions presented by the snowstorm.
If anyone is interested in hosting their own screening of this documentary, contact Daphne Mei, Program Manager of the AABANY Anti-Asian Violence Task Force, at [email protected].
For more photos from the event, click here.
– Written by Rachel Kim and Lucy Jung
