According to a study that breaks down the specific forms of attacks that have occurred since the pandemic, there has been an alarming wave of anti-Asian hate, including physical assaults towards children and older people being spit on. Another concerning element of this new study is that children were more likely than adults to be the victims of physical assaults. Also, children reported severe mental and emotional distress at higher rates than any other age group.
Between March 19, 2020, to February 28, 2021, there were 3,795 incidents received by the Stop AAPI Hate reporting center, and this represents only a fraction of the number of hate incidents that actually occur.
Another concerning element of this recent report is that children were more likely than adults to be the victims of physical assaults. In addition, children indicated high psychological and emotional trauma at higher rates than any other age group.
What is a hate crime?
A hate crime is a crime committed against a person driven in whole or in part by the suspect/hatred/bias offenders towards a group that can be identified by race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, or other factors.
What leads to hate crimes?
Hate crimes are the most extreme form of discrimination, and they are becoming more common as social and political change. Members of unfamiliar groups may be devalued in public and political discourse, and offenders may believe that demographic changes threaten their way of life. Fear, ignorance, or anger may motivate perpetrators rather than hatred.
What are the effects of hate crimes?
Victims of violent hate crimes are more likely to suffer from mental distress. In particular, victims of bias-motivated crimes are more likely to suffer from post-traumatic anxiety, depression, and frustration than victims of non-biased crimes. Hate crimes send a message to those members of the victim’s group that they are not welcomed and not safe in society, rendering the whole group a victim and reducing safety and protection feelings. Witnessing prejudice against one’s group may also cause mental distress and a decrease in self-esteem.
See something, SAY something.
The Hate Crimes Reporting Gap refers to the large gap between hate crimes that occur and those reported to the police. Hate crimes must be recorded to show support for victims and send a strong message to the world that these crimes will not be accepted. Reporting hate crimes will help the communities and law enforcement fully grasp the nature of the issue and devote resources to preventing and responding to racism and hate-based violence.
If you have been victimized by a hate crime or have witnessed a hate crime, report it, document the incident, save evidence, and get support as needed.
STOP ASIAN HATE; ASIANS ARE NOT VIRUSES; RACISM IS.
