New York, NY—Citing an anti-Asian backlash caused by the disinformation spread around the coronavirus, immigration advocates are calling for a calm and measured response throughout the city. In response to reports of discrimination against Asian New Yorkers, Steve Choi, the Executive Director of the New York Immigration Coalition, issued the following statement:
“Let’s be clear, coronavirus is a public health issue and not a question of race, nationality, or immigration-status. Misinformation is fueling unwarranted fears with genuine consequences for our Asian-American communities--including physical attacks and discrimination against Asian-owned businesses and students. This is unacceptable. There have been zero confirmed cases of coronavirus in New York City. New Yorkers know better than to let a public health concern be weaponized against their neighbors. We urge you to visit the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene's website to get the most updated information. We also urge New Yorkers to patronize businesses in New York City’s Chinatown neighborhoods that are affected by disruptions in foot traffic and business. If you are the victim of or the witness to a hate crime, we encourage you to call the New York State Hate Crimes Task Force hotline at 1-888-392-3644.”