As a follow-up to our CNY 2021 event, BBYTA is leading the charge in organising debates and seminars to fight back and discuss the troubling increase in Anti-Asian hate. BBYTA is committed to spearheading anti-racism events and other services to building bridges between East Asian and UK communities during this time of turmoil and xenophobic violence, along with empowering young people to develop new skills across a wide range of projects and activities. 

The staggering 300% increase is unlikely to be the full number of reported crimes. BBYTA wants to bring together thought leaders and victims to a safe space to explore this issue. Inspired by Black Lives Matter movement,  BBYTA feels that more could be done to tackle attacks on minorities of all creeds and colours.
 
With the concerning language on China, East and South East Asian people in the UK are becoming increasingly stereotyped, misunderstood, and portrayed in a negative light.  Evidence of this is already visible . During 2020, the polling group, IPSOS MORI conducted a poll that found 14% of the British population avoids those who have an outright Chinese appearance. That’s one in 7. A problem so widespread that even the bustling and established London Chinatown is seeing 20-60% drop in trade. Additionally, BBYTA has found evidence of attacks all over Edinburgh, from rose street to the University of Edinburgh's main campus.

​

The event was held virtually on zoom on 9th June 2021. The panel consisted of Dr Peng Wang (victim of racial abuse), Maisie Chan (Chinese Children’s Author), Chris Priestly from Show Racism the Red Card and representatives from online group, Stop Asian Hate UK.