Us elections 2024: A recent report by Stop AAPI Hate reveals a disturbing surge in online hate against South Asian Americans, particularly in extremist spaces, from January 2023 to August 2024. The report, "Empowered/Imperiled: The Rise of South Asian Representation and Anti-South Asian Racism," shows that anti-South Asian slurs doubled and peaked in August 2024, coinciding with the rising profiles of Kamala Harris and Usha Vance.
Key Findings
Highest Volume of Anti-Asian Online Slurs: South Asians faced 60% of slurs directed at Asian communities.
Threats of Violence: 973 threats were recorded in August 2024 alone, with 75% targeting South Asians.
Growing Prevalence of Anti-South Asian Hate: Online hate in extremist spaces rose steadily from January 2023 to August 2024.
Concerns from Lawmakers
Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal expressed concern over the increasing rates of South Asian hate, calling it a "backlash to the successes of individuals in our community". Congressman Ami Bera noted that as South Asian communities gain greater political representation, they face a "disturbing surge in hate and violence".
The Bigger Picture
This surge in online hate is part of a larger trend of racial injustice and xenophobia faced by South Asian Americans. The COVID-19 pandemic and the 2020 presidential election have exacerbated anti-Asian hate crimes, with a nearly 150% surge in major US cities. Organizations like Indian American Impact and South Asian Americans Leading Together (SAALT) are working to address these issues through advocacy and community engagement.