An interfaith candlelight vigil was held in Mineola Thursday evening in a stand against hate and to honor those who have been victimized by it.

Hundreds gathered for the vigil to demand an end to a surge of anti-Asian racism and violence. It includes the Atlanta-area killings earlier this month, which have stoked fear and outrage. A total of eight people were killed in the shooting -- including six women of Asian descent.

Many at the vigil held photos of hate crime victims. The assaults underscore the feelings of fear and vulnerability that have taken hold in the Asian-American community.

Those who attended hope the showing of solidarity will inspire people to speak out when they see violence or acts of hate being committed.

"People are really feeling uncomfortable, so we want them to know that this is a safe space, Nassau County and this wonderful country," says Farrah Mozawalla, executive director of the Nassau County Office of Asian American Affairs.