8 years after my husband’s murder in Olathe, let’s move forward together for good | Opinion

Last Saturday, Feb. 22, marked eight years since my husband, Srinivas Kuchibhotla, was taken from us in a senseless hate crime. He had just stopped off at an Olathe pub for happy hour with a friend when a man entered, yelled “Get out of my country!” He left, but soon returned and gunned Srinu down.

Eight years may sound like a long time, but for me, it feels like yesterday. Amid the weight of remembrance, I found solace in a weekend of reflection and self-care.

The arts provided my solace. I attended my first ballet with a friend. I visited a local museum that showcases the artwork of Louis Comfort Tiffany, including a stunning chapel he designed for the 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago. Sitting in that chapel, surrounded by soft music, I watched how the light changed the colors of the glass. It was peaceful — a rare moment of stillness and reflection.

We also came across an art fair happening nearby. The final act was a young band performing, one of the songs from the musical “Wicked,” with its poignant lyrics that resonated with me: “Because I knew you, I have been changed for good.”

That line hit differently. It felt like a sign from the universe — a reminder that life keeps moving forward and that we are shaped by the people we meet, the moments we experience and the lessons we learn.

While I had a brief getaway, the fact that xenophobia and hatred toward immigrants have only been on the rise since that fateful day when Srinu’s life was snuffed out cannot be ignored. A recent report from the Stop AAPI Hate project revealed that hate crimes against Asian Americans, particularly South Asians, have surged by more than 60% since the November election. Hate is rising against other groups, too.

After Srinu’s murder, I could have let anger take over, but I’m grateful to the people who surrounded me with love and support. People like Ian Grillot, who was also wounded in the shooting, and the first responders that night stood up for what was right — and reminded me that kindness still exists.

Times are tough, but let us not forget to be compassionate, tolerant and open to one another. Let’s be a little more like Ian — supporting those who are targeted, standing up against discrimination and choosing to build communities where people feel safe and welcome.

Having lived through yet another sad anniversary, I encourage you to get to know your neighbors. Ask questions, listen with an open heart, and embrace the differences that make our communities vibrant.

Because the alternative — fear, division and harm —leaves scars that last a lifetime.

Let’s choose kindness. Let’s choose community. Let’s choose love.