The COVID-19 pandemic has had a tremendous impact on the way humans live their lives. Lockdowns, quarantines, and restrictions have seemingly become routine and have taken a toll on everyone’s overall well-being. However, from the beginning of the pandemic, society’s most vulnerable groups have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19.
In the next few days, we will highlight three demographics who are facing major issues during this pandemic. The first issue: Anti-Asian Sentiments.
In several counties, but predominantly in Western nations, those of Asian descent have experienced backlash due to the coronavirus. In the last year, there has been a substantial increase in xenophobia and the number of racist hate crimes. In many countries around the world, individuals of Asian descent are being targeted and verbally taunted, shunned and blamed, and physically attacked and killed.
Viruses are not tied to any race or nationality. This overt blame, hostility, and violence toward those of Asian descent is disheartening and reflective of already existing racist, anti-immigrant, white supremacist and xenophobic sentiments that attack people who are or are perceived to be immigrants, refugees, and foreigners.
In these times it is crucial to raise awareness about these hate crimes, and defend and advocate for these vulnerable groups.
Sources:
“Covid-19 Fueling Anti-Asian Racism and Xenophobia Worldwide.” Human Rights Watch. May 12, 2020.
Sakkal, Paul. “‘Go back to your country’: Chinese international students bashed in CBD.” The Age. April 17, 2020.
Bote, Joshua. “An elderly San Francisco man was killed in a ‘brutal’ attack. His family says it was a racist act.” SFGATE. February 2, 2021.
Smith, Azenith. “Asian community feels targeted by crime ahead of Lunar New Year celebrations.” KTVU Fox. February 4, 2021.
Mendiola, Ritchel. “Filipino American Man Slashed In The Face While Riding NYC Subway.” Asian Journal. February 8, 2021.