3 out of 4 Chinese Americans faced racial discrimination in past year, new survey finds
By Ryan General
Researchers at Columbia University are shedding light on the pervasive racial discrimination experienced by Chinese Americans amid the recent rise in Asian hate crimes.
In the study “State of Chinese Americans,” the university’s School of Social Work and Committee of 100 interviewed 6,500 individuals, making it the largest survey of its kind.
The findings revealed that nearly 75% of respondents experienced racial discrimination within the past year, while 55% expressed concerns about their safety in relation to hate crimes or harassment.
The survey also indicated that 1 in 5 participants had been subjected to racial slurs or harassment, while almost 1 in 10 had faced physical intimidation or assault.
The figures indicate a significant impact of racism and discrimination on the community, as there are approximately 5.4 million Chinese Americans residing in the United States based on recent estimates from the Department of Commerce.
A separate study by the Anti-Defamation League in 2021 highlighted how the COVID-19 pandemic and an increase in hate speech and harassment targeting Asian Americans on social media platforms have fueled the rise in anti-Asian hate crimes in recent years.
According to the study, former President Trump’s remarks referring to COVID-19 as the “Chinese virus” or “Kung Flu” may have contributed to the escalation of anti-Asian sentiments during this period.
In the latest STAATUS (Social Tracking of Asian Americans in the U.S.) Index published by the nonprofit Leading Asian Americans to Unite for Change (LAAUNCH), Asian Americans—particularly young women— said they are the least likely to feel that they completely belong and are accepted in the U.S.
The report cited racial discrimination and the lack of representation of Asian American leaders in the workplace as top reasons for this outlook. The report also noted the pervasive portrayal of Asian stereotypes, such as the yellow peril, perpetual foreigner and model minority in American society as one of the most pressing issues Asians are facing today.
Share this Article
Share this Article
