HELL’S KITCHEN, New York City – Vilma Kari, a 68-year-old woman, was the victim of a brutal hate crime that took place in March 2021 at a sidewalk in Hell’s Kitchen. Her assailant, 43-year-old Brandon Elliot, was recently sentenced to 15 years in state prison after pleading guilty to first-degree assault as a hate crime and third-degree criminal possession of a weapon. Kari addressed the public for the first time since the attack, expressing her desire for complete physical, mental, and emotional healing. She spoke out after delivering a powerful victim impact statement at Elliot’s sentencing in a Lower Manhattan courthouse.
Surveillance footage captured Elliot kicking Kari and then repeatedly kicking and stomping on her head and body, while hurling racial slurs at her. Despite the brutal nature of the attack, two doormen present at the scene did not intervene until after the assailant had left. The doormen were subsequently fired.
Although Kari’s physical injuries have healed, she continues to grapple with the emotional trauma of the attack and experiences fear when venturing outside. Despite this, she has found support from a network of allies and from her daughter, Liz Kari, who has not only assisted in her recovery but has also established an organization to combat hate crimes against Asian-Americans in response to the rise in anti-Asian violence.
In the wake of the attack, Kari’s story has garnered attention, even reaching the White House. Deputy Assistant to the President Erika Moritsugu commended Kari for her bravery, emphasizing that her example will inspire and provide solace to others who have experienced similar instances of hate and fear.
Kari’s courageousness and resilience in the face of a discriminatory attack have sparked national conversations about addressing and preventing hate crimes, particularly those targeting Asian-Americans. The attention drawn to her case has amplified efforts to combat hate and discrimination, offering a sense of hope and solidarity to those who have been affected.
Despite the trauma she has endured, Kari’s determination to overcome the trauma and her daughter’s efforts to bring about change underscore the strength and resilience of individuals and communities in the face of hate and adversity.