Stop Asian Hate 2022
Click here to watch the livestream recording.
The 2022 Stop Asian Hate Livestream was a powerful and urgent response to the rising wave of anti-Asian disinformation and hate that escalated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Organized by the Foundation for a Path Forward, in collaboration with Resilience BC and the BC Anti-Racism Network, the event sought to shed light on the ways misinformation fuels racism and violence, particularly in online spaces. With over 98,000 people tuning in, the livestream reached a wide audience, amplifying the voices of experts, community leaders, and activists working to combat anti-Asian hate.
The COVID-19 outbreak in early 2020 triggered widespread fear and misinformation, creating a climate where racism and xenophobia flourished. Bad actors weaponized social media, fake health documents, and conspiracy theories, using platforms to spread unfounded paranoia. The consequences were devastating. According to Statistics Canada, police-reported hate crimes targeting East and Southeast Asian communities skyrocketed by 301% in 2020, reaching their highest levels since data collection began. British Columbia saw one of the sharpest increases, with 106 additional incidents, alongside significant rises in Ontario, Quebec, and Alberta.
Many activists point to the early rhetoric from political leaders as a key driver of this surge in violence. Terms like "Chinese virus" used by former U.S. President Donald Trump and others reinforced harmful stereotypes, leading to increased scapegoating of Asian communities. At the same time, online hate surged. L1ght, an AI-driven internet abuse detection group, reported a 900% spike in racist tweets targeting Asians during the early days of the pandemic. The rise of toxic narratives on social media platforms and online forums played a major role in fueling real-world violence and discrimination.
The 2022 Stop Asian Hate Livestream tackled these issues head-on, exploring how online hate spreads, how it translates into real-world harm, and what can be done to stop it. The discussion emphasized the responsibility of social media platforms, gaming communities, and content-sharing sites to address the growing spread of racist rhetoric and misinformation. Speakers highlighted how formerly fringe hate forums have gained traction, spreading dangerous ideologies at an alarming rate.
By bringing together activists, researchers, and community advocates, the event underscored the urgent need for action. The Foundation for a Path Forward, Resilience BC, and the BC Anti-Racism Network reaffirmed their commitment to countering digital hate, supporting victims of racism, and working towards systemic change. The success of the livestream demonstrated the power of collective action and informed dialogue, ensuring that the fight against anti-Asian hate continues beyond the event itself.