To the editor: The American Asian defense during Trump's era faces challenges as anti-asian violence increases. A probable hate crime against historian Aki Maehara in Los Angeles highlights systemic xenophobia, driven by the divisive rhetoric and economic concerns linked to the commercial war with China (“Asian American professor who teaches history of racism attacked in possible crimes of hate.” May 13). Policies such as Stop CCP Visas Law, which seeks to block students' visas for Chinese citizens, intensifies distrust, linking Asian Americans with espionage and economic competition during recessions. The lack of emphatic condemnation of the administration of anti-Asian violence further aggravates the problem.
Although President Trump's communications director Steve Cheung defends the commitment of the administration to inclusion, his actions and rhetoric often do not address the deeply rooted prejudice. Leadership demands a firm position against hate crimes and systemic reform to guarantee the dignity and safety of the American Asian community and Pacific islanders. The tragedy of Maehara underlines the need for a genuine defense, going beyond symbolic gestures to face xenophobia and encourage unity.
Jane Tanaka, Tehachapi, California.
