The Cambodian Association of Philadelphia revealed this week it received a threatening letter targeting the area’s Cambodian American community.
The group issued the warning in a Facebook post and letter to its members.
“The message, threatening in nature, was specifically targeting our Cambodian community in South Philadelphia,” the letter read.
The group says “it takes the threat very seriously” amidst the rise of anti-Asian violence and has reported it to local authorities.
“The safety of our staff and our community members are our priority,” the letter read.
According to the Inquirer, the letter received by the group read: “I want to take a gun and go down there and kill these individuals. … I am writing you to let you know when I do freak out and try to kill these people that it is your fault for not going to them and encouraging them (it is in their best interest) to stop doing this and remain alive!”
The author of the typed one page letter apparently is upset that Cambodian residents at a nearby park are setting off fireworks, ruining his sleep and raising traumatic memories of his tours of duties in Iraq and Afghanistan.
“This is blatant racial intimidation and a threat to our community,” Cambodian Association of Philadelphia executive director Sarun Chan said.
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