Asian Americans Are Facing More Racism Since COVID

Summary

Since the onset of COVID-19, Asian Americans have faced increased racism and violence, fueled by xenophobic rhetoric linking the pandemic to China, challenging their status as a "Model Minority" and exposing deep-seated racial prejudices in the United States.

Abstract

The article discusses the surge in racism against Asian Americans in the U.S. since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, exacerbated by the rhetoric of then-President Trump and others blaming China for the virus. This has led to a rise in hate crimes, including physical attacks and racist verbal abuse, with elderly individuals being particularly vulnerable. Despite historical success and the "Model Minority" stereotype, Asian Americans continue to face discrimination and are often treated as second-class citizens. The pandemic has highlighted the persistence of racial injustice in a country that prides itself on diversity and constitutional protections, underscoring the need for respect and fair treatment for all.

Opinions

The article suggests that the increase in racism is a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic being politicized and linked to China, providing a pretext for racist behavior.
It emphasizes that Asian Americans, despite being perceived as the "Model Minority," still encounter systemic racial prejudice and are not viewed as equals to their white counterparts.
The piece points out that racism against Asian Americans manifests in various forms, from physical violence to verbal harassment, and is perpetuated by individuals who may not see themselves as racist.
There is an underlying sentiment that the U.S., despite its diverse population and constitutional framework intended to ensure justice and equality, is failing to protect Asian Americans from racial discrimination during the pandemic.
The article implies that the rise in racist acts against Asian Americans is an unnecessary and preventable part of the COVID-19 tragedy, reflecting a broader societal failure to uphold the principles of fairness and respect for all citizens.

A segment of the United States population is targeted

Racism has escalated against Asian Americans since COVID

It was not just when COVID started that racism got worse against Asian Americans in the United States. It happened after Trump and some others repeatedly blamed China for the coronavirus. People in the general public who already likely had racist tendencies found it as an excuse to exhibit more hate and violence toward people of Asian backgrounds.

Elderly people were being knocked to the ground when they were out walking or shopping. Racist rants became the norm as innocent people were yelled at while going about their normal business. Hate crimes became more common toward Asian Americans. There were even deaths which occurred because of the racism.

Asian Americans have at times been considered as the “Model Minority” for various reasons. After the earliest Asian immigrants endured racism, hatred, discrimination, prejudice, and all manner of persecution, many Asian Americans have found some measure of success. They have risen above the obstacles, but they are often not seen as equal even now.

Thought of also as the quiet Americans, those of Asian backgrounds face racism in different forms. There are those who speak to them in the racist rants which have been documented hundreds of times on video and placed on social media. Then there are those racists who say they are not racists but who commit racist acts. Asian Americans are often not treated as well as their white counterparts.

African Americans know what racism is and how it can hurt. Asian Americans also have experienced racism although possibly not to the same degree.

The COVID pandemic has brought untold changes to the world. The United States has suffered greatly with so many cases and deaths. Racism does not have to be part of the tragedy of COVID. Unfortunately, it is.

Life should be fair and just. The United States has a Constitution and government, which are intended to protect people. This is a diverse country, and all people should be treated with respect.