Joe Biden signs Covid-19 Hate Crimes Act into law to combat attacks against Asian-Americans
- ‘We are committed to stop the hatred and the bias,’ says Biden
- The legislation enjoyed widespread bipartisan support, a rarity in Washington these day
“All of this hate hides in plain sight, and too often it is met with silence,” Biden said at a White House signing ceremony attended by dozens of mostly Asian lawmakers and members of his administration. “My message to all of those of you who are hurting is we see you and the Congress has said, ‘We see you.’ And we are committed to stop the hatred and the bias.”
Added Kamala Harris, the nation’s first Asian-American vice-president: “History will remember this day and this moment when our nation took action.”
03:58
Biden committed to stop violence against Asian-Americans, signs Covid-19 Hate Crimes Act
The legislation enjoyed widespread bipartisan support, a rarity in Washington these days, passing the House on Tuesday by a vote of 364 to 62 and the Senate last month by 94 to 1.
Asian-Americans praised its passage, which occurred during Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, but said more needs to be done.
03:29
Surge in anti-Asian attacks in the US sparks discussions on mental health impacts
Critics say it fails to address long-standing inequality; focuses too much on enforcement, rather than changing mindsets; and potentially divides minorities by singling out Asians over other ethnic groups facing similar or worse racism.