Shocking Surge in Anti-Asian Racism

Whilst the pandemic may have taught us that “COVID-19 doesn’t discriminate”, it has also shown us that people do. Almost a year on from its genesis, COVID-19 anti-Asian discrimination is still rife, most recently fuelled by the spike in attacks on Asian-Americans. Similar incidents have been mirrored around the world; with Asians being spat on and harassed in France, India, Indonesia, and, most alarmingly, Australia. A recent study by the Australian National University revealed that 84.5 percent of Asian Australians reported at least one case of discrimination during the coronavirus pandemic. These incidents have included abuse, physical intimidation, general hostility, and xenophobia. 

Jess Klajman spoke with Erin Chew, managing director of the Asian Australian Alliance, to hear more about the issue.