Dear readers,

We, the Editorial Board of The Bolles Bugle, firmly stand against the rampant increase of Asian American hate crimes over the past few months. As of March 16, 2021, 3,800 incidents of Asian American-directed hate crimes have been reported over the course of the pandemic year (NBC News). 

While the Atlanta shooting stimulated a rise in the fight against Asian hate, countless other instances have not been widely recognized. And the crimes are only increasing.

This Monday, a man kicked a 65-year-old woman to the ground and stomped on her while making anti-Asian remarks (The New York Times). She, at the time of publication of this statement, is hospitalized.

As a staff with members of diverse backgrounds, including various parts of Asia, we are devastated to bear witness to these atrocities occurring throughout the nation. 

So, how can we help? One way is to quell the spread of misinformation about COVID-19’s connection to Asian countries. Particularly starting at the beginning of the pandemic, people, including our former-president, directed their fears and concerns—and hate—towards the Asian American community. 

If you see or hear someone calling COVID-19 the “China virus,” “Kung Flu,” or making other discriminatory remarks, speak out against them. It may seem like a joke, but this kind of derogative association of an ethnicity with a disease becomes the roots of prejudices, and even hate crimes.

Another more tangible way to help is through supporting local Asian-owned businesses. Earlier in this pandemic year, many people stopped ordering takeout from Chinese restaurants due to fear, boycott, or malicious intent (Fortune). Financial patronage towards these places not only comes with delicious food, but also stimulates positive economic growth in our community, especially during this fiscally unprecedented time.

Individuals must accept diversity, expect growth, and hold one another accountable for the betterment of our society. Ideology is extremely difficult to change. It tends to shift slowly over time, sifting through each generation. But, by educating ourselves and others, we open ourselves to compassion, understanding, and ultimately, a more accepting world. Together, and with time, we can work towards a more truly equal and just society for all.

Sincerely,

The Editorial Board of The Bolles Bugle