Today, Explained The surge of anti-Asian violence
Mar 5, 2021
Jeff Chang, a cultural critic and author based in the San Francisco Bay Area, delves into the alarming surge of anti-Asian violence in the U.S., noting over 2,800 incidents linked to COVID-19. He emphasizes the need for historical acknowledgment and collective action among communities of color. Discussing the response to racial justice movements, he highlights the importance of empathy and solidarity. Chang traces the painful roots of anti-Asian sentiment, connecting historical discrimination to modern challenges faced by Asian Americans.
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Range of Incidents
- Anti-Asian hate incidents range from vandalism and verbal abuse to physical assaults.
- Examples include a car vandalized with racist language, verbal assaults in stores and parks, and a stabbing in Texas.
Hate Crime Definition
- It's important to be cautious when labeling incidents as hate crimes due to the specific legal definition.
- The surge in anti-Asian sentiment provides broader context for these incidents.
History of Violence
- Anti-Asian violence in the U.S. has existed for centuries, escalating with the influx of Chinese immigrants during the Gold Rush.
- This history of violence, including mobs attacking and burning down Chinese homes, is often suppressed.
