January 27th – U.S. President Biden signed a series of administrative measures around racial equality policies. He condemned racism and xenophobia, including discrimination and prejudice against Asians during the coronavirus pandemic, which is “unacceptable”.
On the same day, Biden publicly signed a number of executive orders at the White House covering housing, prison reform, Aboriginal people and other content, including a memorandum condemning and combating racial discrimination and xenophobia against Asian-Americans and Pacific Islanders.
“We never really did the founding principle of this country, that is, all born equal and have the right to be treated equally throughout their lives,” Biden said at the signing ceremony.
“Now is the time to take action, not only because it’s the right thing, but because if we do, we’ll all benefit from it,” he added.
Biden affirmed the contribution of Asian-Pacific people in the executive order. “Asia-Pacific people have made our country safer during the coronavirus epidemic and throughout history.
An estimated 2 million Asian Pacific people have served in medical personnel, first responders and other important roles during this crisis.”
U.S. media reported that Biden will ask the Department of Justice to help collect data more accurately and report hate and harassment against Asians.
The advocacy group Asians for Justice (AAAJ) reported that there were about 2,600 self-reported hate incidents during the pandemic, ranging from verbal insults to physical violence.
On the other hand, Biden will also order the establishment of a police law enforcement committee, in part in response to the incident that Floyd, a Minnesota man, was “kneeling down” by the police.
In addition, Biden will demand improved prison conditions and empower the Department of Housing and Urban Development to promote fair housing policies.
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