[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 34 (Tuesday, February 23, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E155]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   RESOLUTION CONDEMNING ANTI-ASIAN SENTIMENT AS RELATED TO COVID-19

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. GRACE MENG

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 23, 2021

  Ms. MENG. Madam Speaker, it has been over a year since we have seen 
continued COVID-19 related threats and attacks against the Asian 
American and Pacific Islander community. As millions across our nation 
continue to be impacted by the coronavirus, many continue to live in 
fear following the dramatic increase of threats and attacks against 
those of Asian descent. Recently, we have seen further escalation of 
horrific incidences of elderly AAPIs assaulted--resulting in even 
death.
  Due to perpetuating anti-Asian rhetoric, misinformation, racism, 
discrimination, and unfounded blame for the spread of COVID-19, there 
has been over 3,000 reported incidents of anti-Asian hate crimes, 
including AAPIs being threatened, harassed, or assaulted, or having had 
their businesses vandalized. Just recently, in my district of Flushing, 
New York, a 52-year-old Asian woman was attacked and forcefully shoved 
while waiting in line outside of a bakery--resulting in her needing ten 
stitches on her head. Additionally, a 61-year-old Filipino man was 
viciously attacked and slashed across his face on a New York City 
subway.
  It breaks my heart that, for over a year, in the midst of the COVID-
19 crisis, Asian Americans have been left fighting an additional 
front--that of hate and bigotry.
  That is why I am reintroducing my resolution condemning all forms of 
anti-Asian sentiment as related to COVID-19. This resolution denounces 
the anti-Asian sentiment and recognizes the safety and well-being of 
all Americans during these unprecedented times.
  Madam Speaker, I was proud that in the last Congress, the House 
passed this resolution 243 to 164. However, in light of the recent 
dramatic increase of anti-Asian hate incidents across our country, we 
must coalesce and renew our efforts to condemn all manifestations of 
racism, xenophobia, discrimination, and anti-Asian sentiment and 
scapegoating. We must denounce any and all anti-Asian sentiment of any 
form.
  Madam Speaker, the House must remain strong, and stand against the 
sickening intolerance, bigotry, and violence that is leaving a terrible 
stain on our nation's history, especially during this moment of an 
unprecedented public health crisis. I urge my colleagues to join me in 
this effort to keep all Americans safe.

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