Asian Communities and the Fight Against Racism

While we would like to believe that racism is a relic of the past, the reality is starkly different.

asian heritage month

A History of Struggle and Resistance

While we’d like to believe that racism is a relic of the past, the reality is starkly different. The COVID-19 pandemic saw a sharp rise in anti-Asian hate crimes, with people of Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and other Asian backgrounds being blamed for the virus. In the UK and the US, reports of verbal abuse, violent attacks, and even murders made headlines, revealing deep-seated prejudices that had simply been lying dormant.

However, Asian communities have responded with unwavering strength. Activist groups, social media campaigns, and legal advocacy have been instrumental in pushing for justice and awareness. Movements like #StopAsianHate have amplified voices, shed light on systemic discrimination, and created coalitions with other marginalised groups.

Ali Atab Park in East London honours the legacy of Asian activism against racism. The 1978 murder of Altab Ali, a Bangladeshi textile worker, sparked mass protests and strengthened anti-racist movements in the area. Decades later, systemic racism persists, as seen in reports exposing discrimination in the NHS and workplaces. Recent race riots and governmental denial further highlight these deep-rooted inequalities. Yet, Asian communities continue to resist hrough grassroots activism, legal challenges, and solidarity. The park stands as both a memorial and a reminder that the fight against racism is ongoing.

One of the most inspiring aspects of the fight against racism is the solidarity among different communities. Historically, the struggles of Black and Asian activists have intertwined, from the shared civil rights battles in the US to the British Black Panthers' support for South Asian workers in the 1970s. Today, the spirit of unity continues as Asian activists join forces with other racial justice movements, recognising that the fight against racism is a collective one.

Education and representation also play critical roles. More Asian voices in politics, media, and leadership positions help break stereotypes and foster genuine understanding. Schools and universities are incorporating more diverse histories, ensuring that young people learn about both the struggles and contributions of Asian communities.

 

Recent News

Celebrating the success of the Project SEARCH interns at Queen Mary

Thu 21 Aug 2025

This year, teams across both the University and Students’ Union have had the pleasure of meeting and working w

 
Did you win something in our Balancing Life survey?

Wed 20 Aug 2025

Thank you to everyone who took part in our Balancing Life Survey 2025! Your feedback on flexible activity prog

 
Watch out for unofficial Freshers events and sold out claims

Thu 14 Aug 2025

QMSU is the only host of Official Queen Mary Freshers' Events. Get the low-down of things to watch out for wit

 
Goodbye to our Executive Officers 2024-25

Fri 01 Aug 2025

It's the end of the year and time of year again to say goodbye to our Executive Officers who have served this

 
SU Win: New Internship Programme announced

Mon 21 Jul 2025

Al-Habib Mraish, your Vice President Science & Engineering, has secured an agreement with the university for a

 
 
see more news