Lydia Ko’s Emotional Social Media Post Condemns Asian-American Violence After Atlanta Murders

Kiwi golf star Lydia Ko has posted an emotional post on social media offering “thoughts and prayers” to families about the recent wave of violence against Asian Americans, including the deaths of six women.

The former number one golfer posted a statement on her Instagram page yesterday following the murder of eight people at massage parlors in the US city of Atlanta on Wednesday NZT.

“The recent increase in violence and discrimination towards Asians is absolutely terrifying and heartbreaking,” wrote Ko.

“Especially during difficult times, we should bond more and support each other. I am proud and honored to be a South Korean-born Kiwi, and the violence that is happening right now is just NOT OK.”

Ko was born in Seoul, South Korea, and emigrated with her family to New Zealand as a child.

The 23-year-old now resides in the American city of Orlando, Florida.

A wave of attacks on the Asian community in the US have been reported since the coronavirus entered the country in 2020.

Six of the eight people killed in the shootings at three Georgia massage parlors were women of Asian descent.

“I pray for the day that we love each other for who we are and do not discriminate based on gender, ethnicity, color, language, and culture.

“My thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost loved ones, and also with each and every one of those affected by this hatred.

“Be kind. Spread the love. Stay together. #StopAsianHate

Several Georgia Democratic lawmakers of Asian descent held a press conference at the State Capitol to denounce crimes against members of the Asian community, including the recent killings at massage parlors in the Atlanta area.

State Representative Sam Park said Asian Americans have experienced an “increase” in attacks over the past year due to “racist political rhetoric and the scapegoat.”