Attacks on Asian America

On January 31st, 2021, the sun greeted Oakland’s Chinatown with a glimmering smile. Its rays offered a contrast of warmth to the Californian breeze common during the winter. Experiencing nearly the same weather as the previous day, the majorly Asian community arose from its slumber under the impression that the day would be no different. That was until the town bell struck noon. Although there was no immediate change, what ensued thirteen minutes later was an attack not only on the town but on the Asian community of America. At 12:13 pm, twenty-eight-year-old Yahya Muslim, unprovoked, struck a ninety-one-year-old Asian man to the ground and promptly assaulted two more bystanders. Without a known motive, many have concluded that the attack was a racially-induced hate crime. While this story is only one example of violence directed towards Asian Americans, it has unfortunately been a part of a larger trend of increasing hate acts towards this group. 

According to CBS News, hate crimes against Asian Americans in 2020 increased by 867% compared to 2019. The new year has seen the continuation of this trend, with four separate hate incidents already reported. Without a doubt, the Covid-19 pandemic has played a role in the rise of this trend. From rumors that Asians spread the virus to derogatory terms such as “China virus,” the belief that Asian Americans are at fault for the pandemic in the United States has been popularized.

From reposting educational infographics or news articles to fundraising organizations that help fight against hate acts, social media users have spotlighted and raised awareness of Asian discrimination in recent weeks. However, many are dissatisfied with the general reaction towards this violence against Asians. For example, Ricky Leune, the Senior Director of programs at North Carolina Asian Americans Together, expresses, “a lot of times we’re only visible when there are acts of violence.” Reasonably, Asian American communities are upset at how a pervasive issue was only brought to light when there was a considerable spike in hate crimes.

It is without question that social media is a powerful tool for influencers and ordinary citizens to bring attention to societal problems. Nevertheless, advancing a civil cause doesn’t only entail raising awareness on social media, but actively intervening as well. Active participation can take many forms, from volunteering for nonprofits to donating to charities. Even looking out to make sure that a problem does not fester itself in your community can go a long way. While these might not seem as impactful as reposting an image to hundreds of social media followers, the small actions are what make a difference. As Lao Tzu once said, “the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”