Angel Mario, a Queens resident, has been charged with a hate crime for allegedly spray-painting an anti-Asian message on a security gate. The incident took place on 25 April at the Mott Avenue Liquor and Wine shop. Mario was seen on surveillance cameras writing the obscene message before getting on a bus and leaving the scene. He was arrested and charged two days later.
Mario’s criminal record dates back to 1996, with nearly 100 previous arrests. He has previously been incarcerated for selling drugs and grand larceny. The charges against him this time also include aggravated harassment and criminal mischief, in addition to the hate-crime graffiti charge.
This incident, sadly, is indicative of a wider trend of hate crimes against Asian Americans in the United States since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Discrimination and violence have been reported nationwide, and according to Stop AAPI Hate’s reporting center, there have been nearly 3,800 anti-Asian hate incidents in the last year. While the pandemic has highlighted and exacerbated anti-Asian discrimination, it is a long-standing issue that deserves attention and action.
Anti-Asian hate crimes have been on the rise in New York City, with 29 incidents reported so far in 2021 compared to 17 in the same period last year. Mayor Bill de Blasio has condemned these acts and vowed to keep Asian Americans safe. The NYPD has also increased patrols and outreach to Asian American communities.
This incident underscores the need for continued awareness and action against anti-Asian hate crimes. No one should have to fear being targeted for who they are. It is crucial that we work together to combat hate and bigotry in all its forms, and ensure justice for those victimized by hate-driven violence. The diversity of our city and country is something to be celebrated and celebrated without fear.
