Racist and xenophobic language associated with the coronavirus pandemic is believed to have fueled an alarming spike in physical violence against members of the Asian American community and online harassment over the past year.

As we mourn for the eight people, including six Asian women, tragically killed by a shooter in Georgia one week ago, we join to condemn this hate directed at our families, friends, co-workers, and neighbors.

Words are powerful. We’ve seen the incredible impact language has over the course of this pandemic.

Stop AAPI Hate has tracked anti-Asian hate and discrimination during COVID-19. Between March 19 and December 31, 2020, the group received more than 2,800 reports of anti-Asian hate in 47 states and the District of Columbia, including nearly 240 incidents of physical assault. Race was cited as the primary reason for discrimination, making up 90.3% of cases.

Like other unacceptable inequities, it sadly took an event of mass murder to bring it to the mainstream of public consciousness.

Following last week’s attacks on three Asian-owned businesses, public officials and leaders of health care organizations declared support for the Asian American/Pacific Islanders community.

As health care leaders we must firmly speak out against hate and violence. We condemn the harmful language, myths, and inaccuracies surrounding COVID-19 that could spur further violence in our communities.

Violence, racism, and hate must end. MHA joins with you, our members, to promote equity and combat racism and bias.

Bob Atlas
President & CEO