DENVER — The Asian American and Pacific Islander community offered support to people who are grieving following the shooting that killed 11 people and injured nine others at a Lunar New Year festival in Monterey Park, Calif., last weekend.
On Sunday, as Denver's Far East Center wrapped up its Lunar New Year festivities, some in attendance reflected on the past week.
"It's very heartbreaking, and there's a lot of issues within the Asian community as well that we don't address," said small-business owner Angelia Han. "Mental illness is a real thing in all communities, and our community is not exempt to that."
The Denver Asian Collective is holding space for those needing support following the shooting.
"We have an identity worth and worthy of care as much as every other identities and persons," said Laura Williams, a member of the Denver Asian Collective.
"You do matter and it does deserve care, no matter what," she said.
On Monday evening, the community group will host its quarterly community conversation. They plan to hold space for those grappling with their emotions following the shooting.
"It’s OK to allow yourselves the time and space to feel whatever you want to feel. It’s complicated. It was supposed to be a weekend of celebration, and now it’s mixed," said Stephanie Agtarap, a member of the Denver Asian Collective.
Denver Asian Collective invites anyone affected by the tragedy and anyone seeking a space to talk about their emotions to attend the virtual community conversation from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Monday.
For more information on the meeting, contact the organization on Instagram or email Stephanie or Laura at stephanie@denverasiancollective.com or laura@denverasiancollective.com.
SUGGESTED VIDEOS: Latest from 9NEWS