We have seen a resurge in anti-Asian hate crimes and discrimination. The need for a fix is more evident than ever before. Thankfully, there is a new digital platform dedicated to the AAPI community to help stop asian hate. 

In a media briefing on February 29th, hosted by Ethnic Media Services, key speakers unveiled the Asian Resource Hub, a vital platform designed to empower Asian-American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities in the face of rising anti-Asian hate crimes and discrimination.

Speakers

  • Connie Chung Joe, Asian Americans Advancing Justice Southern California (AJSOCAL)
  • John C. Yang, Asian Americans Advancing Justice – AAJC (Advancing Justice- AAJC) 
  • Merisa Heu-Weller, Microsoft
  • Steven Zhang (not pictured), Asian Americans Advancing Justice Southern California (AJSOCAL)

Connie Chung Joe emphasized the significance of the Asian Resource Hub as a transformative tool to combat discrimination and empower the AAPI community. The hub serves as a repository of rich data, providing an immersive and visually engaging experience that educates viewers on the diverse ways discrimination impacts the community. Joe highlighted the hub’s role in informing allies, empowering AAPI individuals, and showcasing the depth and vastness of AAPI communities.

John C. Yang underscored the hub’s mission to empower communities to help themselves. Yang emphasized the hub’s launch as a pivotal moment in providing multilingual resources and an immersive experience on anti-Asian hate. By empowering communities with essential tools and information, the hub aims to foster resilience and unity in the face of adversity.

Merisa Heu-Weller, the General Manager of Technology for Fundamental Rights at Microsoft, shared insights into Microsoft’s role in addressing the absence of data about the AAPI population and combating hate crimes. She highlighted Microsoft’s commitment to using data and technology to drive positive change and empower individuals. As a third-generation Japanese American, Heu-Weller expressed personal pride in participating in initiatives that promote racial equity and social justice.

Steven Zhang discussed the importance of data in combating anti-Asian hate crimes. Zhang emphasized the hub’s role in disseminating crucial data and resources to the community. By leveraging data-driven insights, the hub equips individuals with the knowledge and tools needed to address systemic challenges and advocate for change effectively.

The speakers’ collective efforts underscored a shared commitment to empowering AAPI communities and fostering inclusivity and understanding. Through the Asian Resource Hub, individuals have access to a wealth of resources, data, and support to navigate the complexities of discrimination and hate crimes. The hub’s multilingual capabilities and immersive experience serve as a beacon of hope and empowerment for AAPI individuals and allies alike.

As the media briefing concluded, the speakers encouraged active engagement with the hub and emphasized the importance of utilizing its resources to address gaps in community support and understanding of anti-Asian hate. The launch of the Asian Resource Hub represents a significant step towards building a more inclusive and resilient society, where all individuals can thrive free from discrimination and prejudice.

In a time marked by uncertainty and division, the Asian Resource Hub stands as a testament to the power of unity, knowledge, and community support. 

We have a duty of harnessing the collective strength and resilience of AAPI communities for individuals to pave the way for a brighter and more inclusive future for all.