BOSTON – Local Asian establishments have taken a huge hit economically, and there has been a surge in verbal insults and violent attacks against Asian Americans across the country, said the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Asian American Commission.
The Commission said that it “will not tolerate racism, xenophobia, and bigotry towards the Asian American community due to fear-mongering and misinformation about the coronavirus (COVID-19). While we understand that it is human nature to fear the unknown, targeting and discriminating against a specific group only fuels the biggest epidemic of all—racism.”
Asian American Commission Announces will hold a press conference on the Coronavirus (COVID-19) on Thursday, March 12th, 10:00 AM at Massachusetts State House Steps in Boston.
“In an effort to prevent further mishappenings, the Commission encourages our communities to stand up against such discrimination and emphasize the importance proper hygiene rather than acting out insensitively against others,” the Commission said in a statement. “Additionally, we highly encourage the media to dispel the spread of misinformation.”
The Commission urged public officials to invest in emergency response and testing efforts to prepare for this evolving situation.
“We recognize that this is an ever-changing situation but it remains crucial to have factual information on the virus and to practice good hygiene as one would with the flu,” the statement said.
Helpful links:
State of Massachusetts website about the Coronavirus: https://www.mass.gov/guides/information-on-the-outbreak-of-2019-novel-coronavirus-covid-19
Facts on the Coronavirus:
https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019
Report hate crimes:
https://www.mass.gov/service-details/protections-against-hate-crimes
The Asian American Commission of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts was created by legislation in 2006. This Commission recognizes that the Asian American community is the fastest growing minority group in Massachusetts. The goal of the AAC is to recognize, as well as highlight, the vital contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to the social, cultural, economic, and political life of the Commonwealth. Additionally, the AAC is involved in identifying and addressing the various needs and challenges that currently face the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. The Commission provides a permanent, effective voice for Asian Americans, and is comprised of 21 diverse members who are appointed by the Governor, Attorney General, Auditor, Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Secretary of State, and the Treasurer.
