Asian American groups join forces against attacks in Bay Area

OAKLAND, Calif. (KGO) -- A coalition of Bay Area Asian American organizations held a news conference to denounce the violent attacks against members of their community. There have been at least 700 locally, and some 2,800 nationally over the last year.

"Our community is fearful with being in the public alone, simply going for a walk, living our daily lives. These incidents are stark reminders that urgent action must be taken to protect our community from violence and sometimes hate," said Cynthia Choi, Co-Executive Director of Chinese for Affirmative Action.

RELATED: 70-year-old Oakland woman seen attacked, robbed by 2 men after returning from bank

This morning's action comes one day after Oakland Police announced the arrest of 29-year-old Yahya Muslim, who is accused of pushing a 91-year old man to the ground last week.

According to the Chamber of Commerce, at least eight groups have volunteered to help fight this targeted violence.

RELATED: Shocking video shows 91-year-old man senselessly pushed to ground in Oakland's Chinatown