EBMUD Statement Condemning Anti-Asian Hate Crimes in Oakland Chinatown

OAKLAND – The East Bay Municipal Utility District Board President Doug Linney and General Manager Clifford C. Chan released the following statements condemning the targeted violence of the Asian, Asian American and Pacific Islander community in Oakland Chinatown and across the nation during the pandemic.  

Statement by Board President Doug Linney, Ward 5 

“It’s heartbreaking and horrifying to see Asian American community members brutally targeted during the pandemic. EBMUD stands united against racism and stands in support of our Asian American and Pacific Islander families, communities and businesses. Hate and intolerance has no place in Oakland.” 

Statement by General Manager Clifford C. Chan

“The East Bay Municipal Utility District condemns the anti-Asian violence that has occurred in Oakland Chinatown and across the country. With our EBMUD offices headquartered in Oakland Chinatown, we have a history of supporting our Asian American partners and it is painful to see our neighbors living in fear.

Racism toward the Asian American community is not new. Asian Americans have faced discrimination since arriving in this country, yet they have influenced the community that we all enjoy today. Chinese laborers built the infrastructure that brought some of the first water supplies to the East Bay. Today, EBMUD’s diverse workforce includes Asian Americans who are on the frontlines serving the public during the pandemic.

At EBMUD, responding to hate and racism is a priority. That is why we have launched a Racial Equity and Justice project following the tragic killing of George Floyd and are embarking on a new Diversity Equity and Inclusion Strategic Plan. We are committed partners in the fight to end racism, hatred and intolerance.”  

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The East Bay Municipal Utility District has a proud history of providing high-quality drinking water for 1.4 million customers in Alameda and Contra Costa counties. EBMUD’s wastewater treatment serves 740,000 customers and protects the San Francisco Bay.

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