Community & Policy

Diversity. Equity. Inclusion.

Violent, racially-driven attacks and harassment against Asian Americans are not new in the U.S., but they have spiked since the start of the pandemic. This is the result of xenophobic rhetoric that wrongly blames Asian people for the spread of COVID-19. According to a recent report, crimes against Asian Americans in 16 cities rose by 150 percent in 2020. Racism and discrimination against any individual or group based on race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation/identity is not acceptable.

The pandemic’s stark racial health disparities have underscored the role that race plays in health and wellness, leading many experts to assert racism as a public health crisis. Hate crimes, including, racism, discrimination, and oppression, contribute to poor mental health, cause trauma, and keep people from living their healthiest lives. A study published in Ethnic and Racial Studies found that Asian Americans who encountered COVID-19-related discrimination experienced higher levels of anxiety and depression. A study by the Asian American Federation found that Asian Americans had some of the highest rates of depression and suicide even before the pandemic, and were less likely to seek help compared with other racial groups.

As you go about your work in your communities, see all community members and be an ally for those who are seeking to find space and their voices. Please use the below links to learn more about this topic and learn how to support efforts to assist Asian communities.