Story at a glance
- Vincent Chin was a Chinese American man and victim of a fatal hate crime in 1982.
- His birthday, May 18, is now observed as Asian American and Pacific Islander National Day Against Bullying and Hate.
- This year, the AAPI community will observe the day amid a surge in anti-Asian hate crimes in recent months.
Vincent Chin would be turning 66 on May 18 if he were still alive. The Chinese American was celebrating his bachelor party when he was brutally beaten and killed by two white men, one of whom referred to the Japanese auto industry’s success when he said, “It’s because of you little motherf—ers that we’re out of work.”
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While his death now marks a critical juncture in Asian American history, if Chin were alive today, he may have again been targeted in the wave of anti-Asian hate crimes during the coronavirus pandemic — some motivated by the unproven belief that China is to blame for COVID-19 — all motivated by racism.
“It’s critical now more than ever that we protect and empower our Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. As anti-Asian hate crimes, xenophobia, and racism are reported at unprecedented and rising numbers, we must remain united and fight against all forms of bullying and hate. Today, Act To Change urgently calls on all leaders and individuals across the country to stand with us on this annual National AAPI Day Against Bullying and Hate, honor the legacy of Vincent Chin, and advocate for a world free of bullying and hate,” said Act To Change co-founder Maulik Pancholy in a statement over email.
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The nonprofit’s virtual event slated for 4 p.m. on May 18 will feature dozens of well-known Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) figures, including Pancholy, actor Simu Liu, comedian Aparna Nancherla and Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.). Many have been vocal advocates for awareness around anti-Asian racism and legislation to address hate crimes amid the recent surge in attacks, 11 percent of which have been physical assaults, according to a recent report from Stop AAPI Hate. Most involved verbal harassment and even shunning, primarily at businesses but also in public streets and parks, many targeting Asian women.
Last month, six Asian women were among the eight killed during a shooting spree at three Atlanta massage parlors. One was 63, while another was 69.
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