The Evolving Fight Against Anti-Asian Hate: Five Years Later

Anna Wong, once a stranger to overt racism, became a victim during the pandemic's peak. The Stop AAPI Hate coalition emerged to document and combat increasing xenophobia against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. Despite declining reports, concerns persist amid political unrest, prompting continued activism and legislative progress.

Anna Wong, who had never encountered overt racism, faced it twice within months after the COVID-19 pandemic began in Los Angeles. As anti-Asian abuse spiked, the Stop AAPI Hate initiative was launched to document incidents and support victims, highlighting the need for national legislative action.

Though annual reports to Stop AAPI Hate are decreasing, there is an ongoing concern among activists about a rise in xenophobia amidst political challenges, including immigration crackdowns and cultural erasure of Asian American history. Such worries remain despite advances like the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act.

Advocates are expanding their focus to include issues such as birthright citizenship and immigrants' rights, aiming to strengthen community resilience. Notable efforts from young activists, such as William Diep's campaign against racism, illustrate a growing determination to protect Asian American heritage and rights.

(With inputs from agencies.)