Strengthening Our Black and Asian Solidarity Through Adversity

• In Event: Invited Symposium. Centering Critical Ethnic Studies in K–20 Education Today: Building Racial Solidarity Across K–12 Schools and Higher Education

Abstract

This 2020-2022 year was a period of tensions between all races in the United States which has been heightened amidst the universal pandemic. However, through these tensions and hardships, stronger bonds were created among people especially out in New York with all the organized marches and protests. A particular and interesting focus on is Black and Asian solidarities is essential because history has shown how much hate there is towards both races. As written by Niall McCarthy, “according to statistics released by the FBI, hate crimes have risen to their highest level in over a decade in the United States.
Last year, there were 7,314 hate crime incidents, nearly 200 more than the total number reported in 2018.” To get even more relevant with statistics to this according to the Pew Research, “Asian and Black Americans are more likely to report adverse experiences due to their race or ethnicity since the pandemic began. About four-in-ten Asian (39%) and Black (38%) adults – and 27% of Hispanic adults – say someone has acted uncomfortable around them because of their race or ethnicity since the coronavirus outbreak. Only 13% of white adults say this has happened to them.” This goes to show that there’s a commonality found between Blacks and Asians especially now. And through this adversity, our solidarity is strengthening.
While some may say black and Asian solidarity did not always exist, there has been a long historical track record of positive relationships. My presentation will illustrate the historical solidarity from past to present.

Author

• David O. Beauzil, Teachers College, Columbia University
  Presenting Author