In the wake of efforts to address anti-Asian racism post-pandemic, a recent poll conducted by AAPI Data and The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research sheds light on the continued challenges faced by Asian Americans, including those of Indian descent. Shockingly, over one-third of respondents reported experiencing racial abuse in various forms, such as verbal harassment, slurs, physical threats, and cyberbullying, within the past year. Additionally, 15% believe they have fallen victim to hate crimes.
Despite a 7% overall increase in hate crimes nationwide, anti-Asian incidents decreased by 33% from 2021 to 2022, according to FBI data. However, Stephanie Chan from Stop AAPI Hate suggests that underreporting might be a significant factor, especially among Asian Americans, leading to the possibility that actual incidents are higher than reported.
On the political front, the poll reveals interesting dynamics within the Asian American community. President Joe Biden enjoys a 52% favorability rating among Asian Americans, slightly surpassing the national average. Nonetheless, there are reservations about his leadership effectiveness, particularly among younger members of the community. Former President Donald Trump faces a less favorable reception, with 7 in 10 respondents expressing an unfavorable opinion of him.
When it comes to potential Indian American candidates, Vivek Ramaswamy and Nikki Haley remain relatively unknown to the community. The political landscape also reflects a notable divide in perceptions of discrimination, with Democrats being more likely to acknowledge the issue compared to Republicans. Roughly half of the respondents identify as Democrats, while a quarter lean Republican.
Despite political affiliations, the survey highlights a shared sense of pessimism about the future of anti-Asian racism. Approximately half of the respondents anticipate facing discrimination in the next five years, and 40% fear becoming targets of hate crimes. These findings underscore the ongoing struggle for recognition, understanding, and effective solutions to combat racial abuse within the Asian American community.
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