Author: Mark Magnier
The Asian-American and Pacific Islander community is making strides as the United States gears up for the 2024 presidential election. With Vice-President Kamala Harris as an AAPI presidential candidate, the community is celebrating its achievements as the nation’s fastest-growing ethnic group, doubling its numbers from 2000 to 2022 and increasing political representation in Congress. Despite these successes, the AAPI community faces political challenges due to an identity problem. Unlike European-Americans, who are not homogenized, Asian-Americans are often viewed as a monolithic group despite their diverse origins from over 40 countries representing 60% of the global population. Since the 1965 immigration…
The US State Department has approved a US$228 million deal with Taiwan for F-16V fighter aircraft spare parts. The package includes parts and related equipment for a “return, repair and reshipment” program. The Bureau of Political-Military Affairs approved the transaction and notified Congress on Monday. The State Department stated that the sale will enhance Taiwan’s defense capabilities against current and future threats, contributing to regional security and stability. The Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States requested the purchase of classified and unclassified parts, along with engineering and technical support services. The parts and services will also…
In the midst of the most unconventional US presidential race, two candidates are keeping their foreign policy stances vague. While one candidate avoids specifics to maintain an elusive, populist appeal, the other does so to evade being cornered. With Vice-President Kamala Harris stepping up in place of a faltering President Joe Biden and a resurrected former president Donald Trump in the mix, uncertainty prevails. Amidst the chaos, questions on how the candidates would handle global issues like US-China relations, the economy, and climate change remain unanswered. Despite voter focus on domestic matters, the importance of foreign policy cannot be ignored.…
When news broke that a Chinese-American former aide to New York’s governor was indicted on charges of being an agent of Beijing, there was a collective feeling of dread in the Asian-American Pacific Islander community. Russell Jeung, co-founder of Stop AAPI Hate, expressed his disappointment, highlighting how this reinforces harmful stereotypes about Chinese-Americans. Jeung, also an Asian American Studies professor, described the situation as a realization of the ‘Yellow Peril’ stereotype, which perpetuates the view of Chinese-Americans as suspects and potential spies. The fear of increased prejudice loomed large as people worried about the fallout from this case. The indictment…
In a recent US State Department statement, Washington called on Beijing to end ongoing atrocities in Xinjiang, reiterating the possibility of international crimes against humanity. The US pledged to continue working with international partners to seek justice for victims of human rights abuses in China. Despite recognizing the UN commission’s efforts to engage with Beijing on human rights issues, the US highlighted the persistence of problematic laws and policies in Xinjiang. The UN report, released just before former UN High Commissioner Michelle Bachelet’s term ended, pointed to mass detentions, forced labor, and political indoctrination endured by Uygurs in Xinjiang. Both…
New York State Senator John Liu expresses unparalleled excitement at the prospect of having an Asian-American in the White House, citing the significance of representation for the community. Amidst recollections of anti-Asian hate crimes during Trump’s administration, the AAPI community looks to Kamala Harris as a beacon of hope and progress. The survey data reveals complexities within the AAPI community’s political preferences, with Trump garnering significant support. However, Harris’ candidacy symbolizes a shift in visibility and representation, challenging long-standing stereotypes. As Asian-Americans become the fastest-growing ethnic group and voting bloc in the US, the political influence of AAPI voters continues…
In the heart of the US Midwest, a tale of two cities unfolds: Carmel and Columbus, both in Indiana, facing controversies over their sister-city partnerships with Xiangyang, China. While Carmel cut ties under pressure from a state law, Columbus stands firm on its decades-long relationship with Xiangyang, driven by economic connections and mutual understanding. The differing approaches reflect a broader US-China diplomatic battleground, with growing US skepticism towards subnational partnerships amid bilateral tensions. Across the country, states and municipalities grapple with balancing economic growth and national security concerns when engaging with Chinese counterparts. Despite the challenges, supporters advocate for the…
The administration of US President Joe Biden is considering financial measures against Chinese banks to take on its adversaries, Sullivan mentioned during an event. China’s support for Russia, especially in supplying dual-use items, has further escalated the conflict in Ukraine, alarming US officials like Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Despite concerns over US policy consistency, the officials reiterated the message of countering China’s assistance to Russia, supported by allied groupings like the Group of 7 and the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation. Blinken emphasized that China cannot advocate peace in Ukraine while aiding Russia’s war efforts. Additionally, discussions were held on…
The Asian American community faces ongoing challenges due to false reporting and biased rhetoric. Recent incidents highlight the harmful impact of misinformation on marginalized groups. Amidst a surge in anti-Asian hate crimes, the AAPI community is mobilizing politically. The fast-growing demographic aims to counter harmful narratives and secure representation. Calls for accountability and accurate reporting are growing stronger. Community leaders emphasize the importance of holding media outlets and politicians responsible for their words. As Asian Americans continue to face discrimination, unity and advocacy are crucial. The AAPI community’s political empowerment is key to shaping a more inclusive and equitable society.…
A recent survey revealed that Asian-Americans are becoming increasingly influential in US politics. The data showed that Democrats are seen as more effective in countering racism compared to Republicans by nearly three times as many respondents. This highlights the growing importance of the Asian-American community in shaping political discourse in the country. The survey also indicated that Asian-Americans are the fastest-growing racial group in the US and the fastest-growing electorate. The majority of respondents expressed their intention to vote in the upcoming election, with a preference for Biden over Trump. However, a significant portion of voters are considering alternate candidates…