In the United States, as violence against Asians continues, the House of Representatives has passed a bill to prevent hate crimes based on racism and prejudice.
The bill is expected to pass soon after being signed by President Biden.
Since the spread of the new coronavirus in the United States, violent incidents that appear to have aimed at Asian residents have continued.
Under these circumstances, the House of Representatives of the United States passed a bill to prevent hate crimes based on discrimination and prejudice against Asian residents with a majority of 364 votes in favor and 62 votes against.
Regarding cases that seem to be aimed at Asians, it is difficult to prove that the cases are based on discrimination and prejudice, and it has been pointed out that there are many cases where they are not certified as hate crimes. ..
The bill will provide necessary training to police authorities throughout the United States to strengthen the crackdown on hate crimes, and police authorities in each region will collect data on the race of victims in each case to the Justice Ministry. It includes guidance on how to do this, and the placement of a new post in charge of hate crimes in the Justice Ministry.
The bill was passed by the Senate in late last month and is expected to pass soon after being signed by President Biden.
Japanese-American Congressman "Asia Women Raise Your Voice"
A Japanese-American who submitted a bill to prevent hate crimes against Asians, Senator Mazie Hirono of the ruling and democratic parties said in an interview with NHK, "Asians have been in this country for generations. Despite being seen as an "eternal foreigner," I have always felt that racial discrimination is not so deep in American society. Like the spread of the new corona virus, people Discrimination surfaced when I was stressed and looking for an outlet for it. "
He added, "I haven't been taught for a long time how Nikkei were treated during World War II. What's happening in America and how we should deal with minorities. We should teach in the field of education. "
Furthermore, in light of the current situation in which women and the elderly are particularly targeted among Asian residents, "It may not be easy, but what do Asian women feel when they speak out? It's important to appeal what you think, "he said, saying that it's important for Asians who have been hesitant to speak up to repeatedly appeal against racial discrimination. I did.
Hirono was born in Fukushima prefecture, moved to Hawaii with his mother when he was in elementary school, and after working as a deputy governor of Hawaii, he is currently in his second term as a senator.