The Wing Luke Museum is getting a big infusion of funds to repair the damage from a racist attack on September 14 by a man with a sledgehammer.
The state of Washington announced it would give the Seattle institution $100,000 to assist with recovery efforts.
“I’m proud our state could step in alongside the City of Seattle to help the Wing Luke Museum recover from the violence of hate,” said Gov. Jay Inslee in a statement. “The museum is a local treasure honoring Washington’s global diversity. I encourage folks to visit and learn more about the history and culture of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders.”
RELATED: Wing Luke remains open despite racially-motivated attack
Police arrested 76-year-old Craig Milne for the attack. He’s charged with a hate crime and malicious mischief. Damage is estimated between $100,00 – $200,000, reports KOMO-TV.
It’s hoped additional money from the city will take up the slack in repair costs.
The money from the state comes from the Department of Commerce.
“Wing Luke is unique in the nation, a source of pride that exemplifies our shared value of inclusivity. We feel a deep sense of responsibility not only to help repair the senseless and malicious damage to the physical structure, but to engage in meaningful discussions about what we must do together to stem the troubling rise in hate crimes and intolerance in our communities,” said Commerce Director Mike Fong.
Mayor Bruce Harrell who is of Japanese and African American descent, applauded the funding.
“It’s our obligation to demonstrate that there is no place for hate in the city of Seattle or anywhere in Washington. AAPI communities deserve to feel safe and welcome, and unwarranted attacks on community members, businesses, and cultural staples like the Wing Luke Museum are wholly unacceptable,” said Mayor Bruce Harrell.
Registration is closed for Common Ground: Building Together conference and gala award banquet in San Francisco on January 24. A shoutout to our planning committee: Jane Chin, Frank Mah, Jeannie Young, Akemi Tamanaha, Nathan Soohoo, Mark Young, Dave Liu, and Yiming Fu.
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