Awareness of and Attitudes toward Anti-Asian Hate Crimes Post COVID-19

• In Event: Understanding Political Violence and Public Safety: Insights from Protest Crimes, Hate Crimes, Radicalization, and Counterterrorism

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic saw a surge in anti-Asian hate crimes, yet research on public awareness and attitudes remains limited. High-profile incidents, such as the 2021 Atlanta spa shootings and the 2022 attack on Vilma Kari, highlight this violence. While hate crimes against Black, Jewish, Muslim, and LGBTQ communities have been extensively studied, crimes against Asian Americans receive less attention, partly due to the "model minority myth". This contributes to underreporting and inadequate policy responses. Hate crimes have distinct psychological and social, yet little is known about how anti-Asian hate crimes are perceived. COVID-19 may have amplified prejudices, increasing hostility. This study examines U.S. adults’ awareness of and attitudes toward anti-Asian hate crimes post-pandemic. We assess how source credibility, detail level, and victim statements influence perceptions using a survey-based experiment. Findings will improve understanding of societal responses and inform efforts to combat racial discrimination.

Authors

• Alice Jurkiewicz, University of Nebraska Omaha / NCITE

• Erin M. Kearns, University of Nebraska Omaha / NCITE