A public service announcement featuring AAPI performers, broadcast journalists and social media influencers calling on all Americans to stand against the stigma, xenophobia and harassment related to COVID-19 that Asian Americans continue to experience was released last week by SAG-AFTRA.
The video was inspired by the sudden spike in hate crimes against Asian Americans during the pandemic, says a statement from SAG-AFTRA, a union for actors and workers in the entertainment industry.
“As a global community, we are experiencing a historically difficult time due to the COVID-19 pandemic," says SAG-AFTRA President Gabrielle Carteris. "Unfortunately, instead of working together to get through this crisis, a few misguided people are looking for a scapegoat.
“As a global community, we are experiencing a historically difficult time due to the COVID-19 pandemic," says SAG-AFTRA President Gabrielle Carteris. "Unfortunately, instead of working together to get through this crisis, a few misguided people are looking for a scapegoat.
"We are still seeing a shocking increase in hate crimes against Asian Americans, including shunning, racial profiling, verbal harassment and even physical assault. This is a time of high stress, but that is no excuse for discriminatory behavior. We are all Americans and we are all in this together.”
“SAG-AFTRA is paying attention to those brave Asian American voices coming forward with their heart-wrenching experiences of harassment. We are listening to our members who have a stake in shaping a better world, free of discrimination and harassment, and we applaud Asian American activists, organizations and allies who are bringing attention to this issue. SAG-AFTRA stands with you,” said Ren Hanami, chair of the SAG-AFTRA National Asian Pacific American Media Committee.
The video features 16 AAPI performers, including broadcast journalists and social media influencers including Lucy Liu, Ken Jeong, Iqbal Theba, Joel de la Fuente and Jeannie Mai among others.
“If you experience hateful, criminal behavior or witness it, please report it to your local law enforcement. Let’s stand up for each other,” added Carteris.
The video premiered during the union’s Race & Storytelling: Asian American Voices livestream panel discussion, which explored the ways in which better representation in the media and three-dimensional portrayals of Asian American Pacific Islander characters can counter stereotypes and result in larger societal impact. You can view the panel discussion HERE.
“If you experience hateful, criminal behavior or witness it, please report it to your local law enforcement. Let’s stand up for each other,” added Carteris.
The video premiered during the union’s Race & Storytelling: Asian American Voices livestream panel discussion, which explored the ways in which better representation in the media and three-dimensional portrayals of Asian American Pacific Islander characters can counter stereotypes and result in larger societal impact. You can view the panel discussion HERE.
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