July Newsletter

Celebrating Independence Day 

July 4th marks a significant day in the United States as Americans come together to celebrate Independence Day. This day commemorates the country's freedom and the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. While this national holiday is widely observed across the nation, it holds a unique meaning for Asian Americans, who bring our rich heritage and diverse perspectives to the celebration.

Asian Americans have made countless contributions to the growth and development of the United States. From laborers who helped build the transcontinental railroad over 150 years ago to influential leaders, entrepreneurs, artists, and scientists in modern days, Asian Americans have played an integral role in shaping the fabric of this great nation.

As we celebrate Independence Day with parades, festivals, and fireworks, it is also important to reflect on the challenges Asian American have faced and continue to overcome. Despite the significant contributions of Asian Americans, we have been subject to racial bias, discrimination and hate for generations - from the 1882 Chinese Exclusion Act, the internment of Japanese Americans during the World War II, the “Red Scare” in the 1920s and 1950s, the murder of Vincent Chin in 1982, to the racial targeting of Asian American scientists under programs like “China Initiative” and the surge of Asian hate during the COVID pandemic, and in the recent months the sweeping “alien land bills” in over 30 states to restrict or ban property ownership of groups by national origin.

We are concerned by the rising anti-Asian sentiment that has been exacerbated by geopolitical tensions. As recently as June, Ohio House Bill 212 was introduced to ban businesses with ties in China from owning real property. The Ohio Chinese American Association and Asian American Coalition of Ohio are assessing the situation and coordinating with our allies nationwide to determine our action plans. At the end of June, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) filed a brief with the federal court that handles the lawsuit filed by civil rights groups against the State of Florida for its recently enacted law that imposes new prohibitions on owning or purchasing land in the Florida; the DOJ listed multiple of areas of concerns related to unconstitutionality of the Florida law.

We wish you a joyous and meaningful Independence Day celebration. May this day serve as a reminder of the importance of unity, diversity, and the pursuit of freedom for all.

Happy Independence Day!

Asian American Coalition of Ohio (AACO)
Ohio Chinese American Association (OCAA)