Council Condemns anti-Asian Racism

Mar 02, 2021

Council passed a resolution decrying the racist, xenophobic and other hurtful and aggressive actions that Asians, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders individually, as well as families and businesses have experienced since the pandemic. Asian-owned businesses have experienced a significant decline in customers, even before the shelter in place orders were enacted.

The resolution (Res. 81-2021) sponsored by Councilman Basheer Jones also addresses the racism and inequality affecting African Americans, stating that Blacks "are contracting COVID-19 at higher rates and are six times more likely to die as a result of this virus and the pandemic adds to the list of health disparities that Black communities already face” in healthcare, housing, and other inequalities.

The resolution further states "people of color are disproportionately more likely to be in low-paying or hourly-wage jobs” that limits their ability to provide health care, child care and transportation for their families. Not being able to leave work for family reasons adds to their struggles.

While the City of Cleveland denounces hate speech and discrimination in all forms, the resolution is calling on Ohio and Gov. Mike DeWine to be a leader in addressing COVID-19 related discrimination as well by:

• Condemning all manner of racism, xenophobia, hate speech, intolerance, and discrimination in the City of Cleveland, against Asians and Asian American Pacific Islanders.
• Commit to regular outreach, virtual town halls, and consultation with AAPI community organizations and leaders to engage in authentic relationships with impacted communities.
• Call upon the Ohio Department of Health and local public health departments to incorporate anti-racism messaging.
• Commit to bystander intervention practices and training within departments and call upon local departments to protect neighbors and communities against hate speech and hate crimes.