As New York City absorbed more sobering news about racism, Roosevelt Islanders responded with an AAPI Stop the Hate Rally. It was organized in just a couple days, but brought dozens out on Saturday.
Photos courtesy of rally organizer Rachel Dowling
Inspired by a mass killing in Atlanta, Roosevelt Islanders quickly spread the word about a rally on Facebook, and it was a typical local event. That is, not like anywhere else. Organizers drew residents as much in support of their AAPI neighbors as in protest.

Six of those killed in Atlanta were identified as Asian.
In the meantime, the struggle in New York brought media coverage with five new hate crimes against Asians.

And Police Commissioner Dermot Shea told PIX11 that NYPD investigated ten anti-Asian hate crimes so far in 2021. For the same period, last year, there were none.

Not without some bumps along the way, the Roosevelt Island community welcomes shifting demographics with culture-rich dynamics.
Saturday’s rally echoed a Black Lives Matter rally held in the same spot during the national George Floyd protests, last June.
- How Roosevelt Island’s Steady Daily Life Connects With City ChangesExplore how Roosevelt Island’s steady daily life connects with city changes, from safety incidents to neighborhood campaigns, and how island routines shape our shared urban rhythms.
- Mother’s Day Weekend on Roosevelt Island: Warming Up to CommunityCelebrate community during Mother’s Day weekend on Roosevelt Island. Discover how neighbors gather, new spots like Citarella, and the warmth of the season.
- How Queens News and Community Events Influence Roosevelt Island Daily LifeSee how Queens news and community events influence Roosevelt Island daily life, touching on public safety, housing changes, and neighborhood connections.
- June News Highlights: Roosevelt Island and Queens Community UpdatesGet the latest June news highlights from Roosevelt Island and Queens, including community updates, local safety, rent discussions, transit negotiations, and celebrations.
- Community Safety and Resilience on Roosevelt Island and BeyondCommunity safety and resilience on Roosevelt Island and beyond are reflected in how our neighbors, institutions, and leaders quietly respond to challenges and sustain local life.
A Job With a Predictable Ending
The role looks stable from the outside. A President and CEO is appointed. A contract is approved. A salary is set.











1 COMMENTS