As racist attacks against Asians across the globe continue to rise as the threat of COVID-19 grows, concerned citizens have been speaking out against xenophobic rhetoric and are looking for ways to support Asian communities.
Celebrities — like The Real‘s Jeannie Mai and Westworld actor Leonardo Nam — have publicly denounced hate-fueled language and behavior. They’re also encouraging people to focus on unifying and supporting each other as the United States surpasses China and Italy with the most confirmed coronavirus cases worldwide with more than 85,000.
RELATED: Racist Attacks Against Asians Continue to Rise as the Coronavirus Threat Grows
Stars have also teamed up with IW Group, an Asian-American communications agency, to launch #WashTheHate: a social media campaign designed to raise awareness about anti-Asian bigotry amid the viral outbreak. The campaign launched last week and features celebrities washing their hands while sharing stories about how COVID-19 has personally affected their lives.
“We’re hoping this campaign sends a message of solidarity and compassion to the world,” Mulan star Tzi Ma said in a statement. “Hatred and division aren’t going to prevent this virus from spreading and will only make an already-difficult situation even worse. We’re calling for everyone — regardless of their race or country of origin — to recognize that we’re all in this fight together.”
Here are the stars who are sharing their stories:
Actor Tzi Ma
Actress Celia Au
Actor Maulik Pancholy
Actress Catherine Haena Kim
YouTuber Marlin Chan
Boba Guys Co-Founder Andrew Chau
Actor Osric Chau
Fashion brand Opening Ceremony Founder Carol Lim
Musician AJ Rafael
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