TAAF Statement Following the Verdict in the ‘Grandpa Vicha’ Murder Trial

Our hearts are with the family of Vicha Ratanapakdee as they continue to navigate the unimaginable loss of a beloved father and grandfather following yesterday’s verdict. As one of the first highly visible, anti-Asian hate attacks during the pandemic, Grandpa Vicha’s tragic death and this trial have deeply shaken our community. Over the past five years, the Ratanapakdee family’s advocacy and resilience have raised awareness nationally about the real and urgent safety challenges facing Asian Americans. 

As Vicha’s daughter, Monthanus, shared after the verdict was announced:

“My father was an 84-year-old man who was attacked while simply walking in his neighborhood, and that loss can never be undone. At the same time, I acknowledge the conviction for involuntary manslaughter and assault, which affirms that my father’s death mattered and that harm was done. Our family is grieving, and we will continue to honor my father’s life and advocate for the safety and dignity of our elders.”

We honor Grandpa Vicha’s life and memory, and we stand in solidarity with the family and our broader community during this difficult time. Let us carry his legacy forward by building a future where every member of our community is seen, valued, and safe.

‍

About The Asian American Foundation (TAAF)

TAAF serves the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community by promoting safety, fostering belonging, and advancing prosperity. Launched in 2021 in response to the rise in anti-Asian hate and to address the long-standing underinvestment in AAPI communities, we invest in initiatives to combat anti-Asian hate, integrate AAPI studies into school curricula, elevate authentic AAPI storytelling, and expand resources and representation for our communities. Through our high-impact initiatives, events, and investments in national and local nonprofits, we’re creating a permanent and irrevocable sense of belonging for millions of AAPIs in the United States. For additional information about TAAF, please visit www.taaf.org or follow @TAAForg on Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, or Facebook.