Civil rights activist Helen Zia to visit Emory University for panel discussion

The event aims to address anti-Asian hate and gender-based violence affecting AAPI communities.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Helen Zia, a national civil rights activist and journalist who helped bring Vincent Chin's murder to the American conscience, is coming to Atlanta in March for a conversation about anti-Asian hate, gender-based violence, and what communities can do about both. The Asian Pacific Institute on Gender-Based Violence is hosting the event, 'Meeting the Moment: A Dialogue with Helen Zia,' at Emory University School of Law on March 5.

Why it matters

Anti-immigrant rhetoric has intensified nationally, and reported incidents targeting AAPI communities have increased alongside it. In Georgia, those trends hit a population that has grown significantly in recent decades and now holds real political weight. The event aims to address these issues and support survivors.

The details

Zia will be joined by Emory University history professor Chris Suh, with WSB-TV anchor Sophia Choi moderating. The event is open to the Atlanta community, with tickets available online. Local AANHPI businesses and community organizations will be featured at the event, and all proceeds will support API-GBV's work connecting survivors to culturally specific resources.

  • The event is scheduled for March 5, 2026 at Emory Law.
  • A sponsor reception with Zia is scheduled for March 4, 2026.

The players

Helen Zia

A national civil rights activist and the journalist who helped bring Vincent Chin's murder to the American conscience.

Chris Suh

An Emory University history professor.

Sophia Choi

A WSB-TV anchor who will moderate the event.

Asian Pacific Institute on Gender-Based Violence (API-GBV)

A national nonprofit that focuses on survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking in AANHPI and MENA communities.

Monica Khant

The CEO of API-GBV.

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What they’re saying

“We pay tribute to the leadership of AANHPI women in Atlanta who have been paving the way for a safer and more equitable future. We are so honored to have Helen, a fierce advocate and pioneer in the movement against gender-based violence, join us in Atlanta to witness the Atlanta community's grassroots organizing and resilience firsthand.”

— Monica Khant, CEO of API-GBV (roughdraftatlanta.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This event highlights the growing concerns in the Atlanta community about anti-Asian hate and gender-based violence, and the importance of supporting survivors and addressing these issues through grassroots organizing and community-based solutions.