AAPI
At the Michigan Response to Hate (MIR2H) Conference addressing anti-Asian hate, John Johnson, Director of the Michigan Department of Civil Rights, delivered a crucial message. In light of the recent rise in anti-Asian sentiment, he conveyed his unwavering support for the Asian Pacific American (AAPI) community.
“The Michigan Department of Civil Rights is here to assist,” emphasized John Johnson. “We want to receive complaints of hate against the AAPI community. Our job is to receive, investigate complaints, and bring charges if we find discriminatory acts. We encourage members of the AAPI community to contact us, as we know some incidents are not reported.”
John Johnson specifically acknowledged Senator Stephanie Chang for her instrumental role in providing a $250,000 grant to the department to enhance outreach to the AAPI community and support conferences like this one. This initiative aims to ensure the AAPI community is aware of their rights and access to support.
He recognized that anti-Asian hate did not start 40 years ago with the Vincent Chin incident; it has been a longstanding issue in the U.S. As an operational arm of the constitutionally established Michigan Civil Rights Commission, the department feels a special duty to uphold their obligations in receiving and investigating complaints, striving to bring more justice to the AAPI community.
This conference was not only a forum for discussion but also a call to action, highlighting the ongoing commitment to providing support for the AAPI community.
- Keywords: Anti-Asian Hate, Michigan Department of Civil Rights, John Johnson, AAPI Community, Justice
- Description: At the MIR2H Conference, John Johnson expressed steadfast support for the AAPI community, highlighting the role of the Michigan Department of Civil Rights in combating hate.