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Newsletter - #347 USHCA/AAJC Updates; 4th Court Blocks Birthright Citizenship EO; Immigration; TX SB17;+ #347 USHCA/AAJC Updates; 4th Court Blocks Birthright Citizenship EO; Immigration; TX SB17;+ In This Issue #347 · Update from the U.S. Heartland China Association · Update from Advancing Justice | AAJC · Fourth District Court Blocks Trump's Birthright Citizenship Restrictions · Reuters : Refugee Cap of 40,000 with Focus on White South Africans · Lawsuit Against Texas Alien Land Law Dismissed · News and Activities for the Communities Update from the U.S. Heartland China Association Min Fan 范敏 , Executive Director, U.S. Heartland China Association, returned to speak at the APA Justice monthly meeting on August 4, 2025.The U.S. Heartland China Association (USHCA) is a bipartisan 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering constructive engagement between the U.S. Heartland and China. Contrary to assumptions based on its name, the organization was not founded by Chinese Americans. It was established by the late U.S. Senator Adlai Stevenson of Illinois and is now chaired by former Missouri Governor Bob Holden . USHCA explicitly does not engage in lobbying or political advocacy, adhering strictly to its nonprofit charter.USHCA serves as a neutral platform to promote dialogue, education, cultural exchange, and economic engagement between Middle America and China. The organization recognizes that many communities in the Heartland— particularly rural areas and underserved minority populations — have historically had limited access to international and cross-cultural education, especially regarding China. USHCA seeks to fill this gap by connecting communities, promoting awareness, and building people-to-people ties.Min is the first Chinese American to lead USHCA. When she joined the association at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, USHCA had limited ties to the broader Chinese American community, despite its long-standing role as a cultural and diplomatic bridge. By partnering with national Chinese American networks, USHCA led a large-scale Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) relief effort. Over 800,000 pieces of PPE were collected and distributed across the Heartland, including to rural and underserved health clinics. This initiative helped address severe shortages and brought together volunteers through state agencies and nonprofit groups. It also introduced many Heartland residents to Chinese Americans for the first time—a transformative experience for all involved. Min recognized the need to explain why U.S.-China relations matter at the local level. USHCA publishes a comprehensive report, “ Why U.S.-China Relations Matter to the Heartland ,” that quantifies the multifaceted relationship that each of the 21 states in the Heartland region has with China, such as: · Hundreds of millions (up to half a billion dollars in some cases) contributed by Chinese international students to state economies. · Jobs created through Chinese investment and exports. · Historical ties between Heartland communities and China dating back generations. Although the report does not constitute political advocacy, it has become a practical tool for local stakeholders, elected officials, and educators to explain the relevance of U.S.-China relations in concrete, community-focused terms.Beyond policy and economic dialogue, USHCA supports cultural exchange and education. It promotes the work of Chinese language teachers in Heartland states like Kentucky and Missouri—even as demand for Mandarin instruction declines nationally. The association also supports cultural projects, such as the “Far East Deep South” documentary tour along the Mississippi River , to strengthen cultural awareness of the long history of Chinese Americans in the Mississippi River basin community. A centerpiece of USHCA’s current efforts is the Yangtze-Mississippi Regional Dialogue , launched in 2023. This subnational diplomacy initiative connects local leaders in the Heartland with their counterparts in China. The first round included six U.S. mayors visiting China to initiate discussions on economic development, climate resilience, and public health. In 2024, a reciprocal delegation from China visited Memphis, Tennessee, where the original U.S. mayors and other community leaders hosted a series of dialogues. In 2025, the third round of this initiative is set to take place in Wuhan, Hubei Province—a symbolic and strategic location. These dialogues are deliberately kept out of the media spotlight to ensure continuity and a neutral learning experience for the American delegates. USHCA, like many organizations working in the U.S.-China space, is operating under increasing political scrutiny from both sides. The association has faced indirect attacks by groups such as State Armor. Some of the U.S. mayors who previously participated in USHCA-led trips to China had experienced harassment on social media or being criticized by their political opponents.These developments underscore a broader trend where China-related efforts — even cultural or educational — are weaponized in political discourse, especially during election cycles.Due to the expiration of its initial grant funding, USHCA is now reaching out to the community for two key forms of support: · Leadership Identification : Helping the organization identify open-minded local officials and civic leaders interested in engaging with Chinese counterparts. · Financial Support : Providing or sourcing funding to allow local delegations to continue participating in the Yangtze-Mississippi Dialogue and other exchange programs. Despite political headwinds, USHCA continues to witness strong interest from local leaders across the Heartland. Many mayors and nonprofit leaders are eager to address shared global challenges—including climate change, healthcare access, and economic revitalization—through international cooperation. USHCA believes these dialogues can promote a more nuanced understanding and help reshape the narrative surrounding China, shifting away from confrontation and toward mutual understanding and stability.USHCA remains a critical actor in maintaining and nurturing people-to-people diplomacy at a time of strained U.S.-China relations. Through programs like the Yangtze-Mississippi Dialogue, cultural education efforts, and community-driven initiatives, the organization continues to serve as a rare but vital bridge between the American interior and one of the world’s most consequential nations. Update from Advancing Justice | AAJC Joanna YangQing Derman , Director, Anti-Profiling, Civil Rights & National Security Program, Advancing Justice | AAJC, is a regular invited speaker at APA Justice monthly meetings. On August 4, 2025, she gave the following update: 1. Monitoring of China Initiative Language in CJS Appropriations Report Joanna reaffirmed Asian Americans Advancing Justice – AAJC’s vigilance in tracking attempts to reintroduce elements of the discontinued China Initiative through language in the Commerce, Justice, and Science (CJS) Appropriations Subcommittee report. The China Initiative was widely criticized for encouraging racial profiling, particularly of individuals of Chinese descent in academic and scientific communities. AAJC is working with partner organizations to oppose any provisions that attempt to revive these discriminatory practices. 2. Advocacy Letter to Congress A joint letter—led by AAJC in partnership with Stop AAPI Hate, Chinese for Affirmative Action (CAA), and the Asian American Scholar Forum (AASF)—was submitted to Congress, urging the removal of harmful language tied to the China Initiative. However, the full Appropriations Committee vote has been postponed until after the House returns from the August recess. AAJC plans to recirculate the letter to gather additional organizational endorsements in the interim.Groups that missed the initial tight turnaround are encouraged to sign on during this extended opportunity. 3. Clarification on West Virginia Land Law – HB 2961 AAJC addressed concerns regarding HB 2961, a land law enacted in West Virginia on April 28, 2025, which has raised questions among community organizations.The law defines a "prohibited foreign party" to include individuals from China, but the ban applies only to those acting on behalf of foreign-owned entities—not individuals purchasing land for personal use. It affects all types of real estate, including mineral rights, when transactions involve entities under foreign control. In the event of a violation, the law allows six months for divestment, enforced by state courts and the West Virginia Attorney General.AAJC remains committed to defending the rights of Asian American communities and is actively engaged in legislative advocacy to combat discriminatory policies. Organizations are urged to stay informed, join collective efforts, and support ongoing monitoring and response strategies. Fourth District Court Blocks Trump's Birthright Citizenship Restrictions Author: Madeleine Gable, APA Justice Communications AssociateAccording to CBS News , The Hill , Maryland Matters , and multiple media reports, a federal judge in Maryland blocked President Trump’s executive order (EO) targeting birthright citizenship on August 7, 2025. This marks the fourth such decision since the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in June limiting nationwide injunctions.Previously, U.S. District Judge Deborah Boardman indicated she planned to issue a nationwide injunction blocking the restrictions, but she did not have jurisdiction at the time because the case was under the authority of an appeals court. Last week, the appeals court remanded the case to her for ruling.The June Supreme Court ruling did not directly address the constitutionality of President Trump’s executive order, instead ruling that lower courts exceeded their authority by issuing nationwide injunctions. However, the justices did maintain that lower courts could issue nationwide stays if the lawsuits were class-action suits, which is what Judge Boardman did.Judge Boardman identified a class of children born on U.S. soil who “unquestionably would be citizens but for the Executive Order.” She added that the EO was “almost certainly unconstitutional” by violating the Fourteenth Amendment, which guarantees citizenship to “all persons” born in the U.S.President Trump’s executive order seeks to deny birthright citizenship to children without at least one parent who is a citizen or permanent legal resident.Judge Boardman’s ruling followed The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals , and the District Courts in New Hampshire and Massachusetts . Read more about the Birthright Citizenship issue at https://www.apajusticetaskforce.org/birthright-citizenship . Reuters : Refugee Cap of 40,000 with Focus on White South Africans According to an exclusive report by Reuters on August 15, 2025, the Trump administration is weighing a refugee admissions cap of about 40,000 for fiscal year 2026, with an unprecedented majority—some 30,000 slots—earmarked for white South African Afrikaners. This marks a sharp shift in U.S. refugee policy, which has traditionally emphasized global humanitarian priorities and bipartisan support. The proposed cap would be far lower than the 100,000 admissions under President Biden in 2024 but higher than Trump’s record-low 15,000 ceiling in 2021. While Trump has argued that Afrikaners face discrimination and violence in South Africa, the South African government has rejected those claims. Officials also noted that smaller caps, as low as 12,000, were discussed, and that some admissions could go to Afghans, Ukrainians, or other groups.Implementation has faced challenges. The State Department has laid off refugee program staff, forcing inexperienced Health and Human Services (HHS) workers to take on refugee screening and assistance. Early arrivals from South Africa have already reported hardship, with reduced benefits, difficulty obtaining Social Security numbers, and limited access to jobs or housing. Refugees expressed frustration at spending thousands of dollars to cover basic needs after Trump cut support programs that previously lasted a year down to just four months. White House officials stressed that no final decision has been made and that refugee caps will be determined in September. Lawsuit Against Texas Alien Land Law Dismissed Author: Madeleine Gable, APA Justice Communications Associate According to AsAmNews , Daily Guardian , South China Morning Post , and multiple media reports, Federal Judge Charles Eskridge dismissed a lawsuit against Texas’ recently passed alien land law, Senate Bill 17 (SB 17), finding that the plaintiffs lacked standing. On July 3, 2025, the Chinese American Legal Defense Alliance (CALDA) filed a lawsuit on behalf of three Chinese nationals, Wang v. Paxton (4:25-cv-03103) , arguing SB 17 discriminates against Chinese people based on race and ethnicity and creates fear for those trying to secure housing while living in Texas legally. The lawsuit also asserts that the bill violates federal preemption, the principle that state law cannot supersede conflicting federal law. Set to take effect on September 1, 2025, SB 17 prohibits noncitizens from China, Iran, Russia, and North Korea from purchasing homes, acquiring land, or leasing apartments in Texas. It also grants the governor the authority to add other countries to the list. The bill applies to all “real property,” not just land near critical infrastructure, but it does not apply to dual citizens, permanent residents, and individuals legally residing in the U.S. on temporary work or student visas. For citizens of China, the restriction is especially severe. While students or workers on visas are still free to purchase their principal residence, they are prohibited from acquiring holiday homes or investment properties. Leasing too is restricted, with lease contracts limited to terms shorter than one year. Proponents of the bill insist it is necessary to ensure national security by targeting governments and companies deemed hostile by the federal government. However, opponents of the bill argue it is unconstitutional and discriminatory, promoting racial profiling and xenophobia. Gene Wu , Chair of the Texas House Democratic Caucus, called the bill “a loud and clear message that Asians don’t belong in this country.” The Texas Attorney General’s office successfully contended that the law is not discriminatory and that the court lacks jurisdiction over police powers exercised “to protect Texans from foreign governments that intend to harm them.” Following Judge Eskridge’s decision, CALDA announced that it would appeal. According to Justin Sadowsky , lead counsel for CALDA, “Chinese people in this state of Texas will be terrified of so much as renting a place to live, because if it turns out this law does apply to them it is a state jail felony, and they can end up in jail for two years.” Prior to the hearing, a press conference was held in front of the courthouse, featuring speakers from a variety of advocacy organizations. News and Activities for the Communities 1. APA Justice Community Calendar Upcoming Events: 2025/08/19 China Connections - Bridging Generations of U.S.-China Education Exchange: Chinese Scholars to America2025/09/06 The 2025 Asian American Youth Symposium2025/09/08 APA Justice Monthly Meeting2025/09/08 Committee of 100 Conversations – “Recollections, Pioneers and Heroes” with Janet Yang2025/09/09 China Connections — Chinese Encounters with America: Profiles of Changemakers Who Shaped China2025/09/16-17 2025 AANHPI Unity Summit Visit https://bit.ly/3XD61qV for event details. 2. USCET Events on 8/19 and 9/9 WHEN: August 19, 2025, 8:00 - 9:15 pm ET WHAT: China Connections - Bridging Generations of U.S.-China Education Exchange: Chinese Scholars to America WHERE: Webinar REGISTRATION : https://bit.ly/3UzJuIL WHEN : September 9, 2025, 5:30 - 7:00 pm ET WHAT: China Connections — Chinese Encounters with America: Profiles of Changemakers Who Shaped China WHERE: Lindner Family Commons, George Washington University’s Elliott School of International Affairs, Washington DC REGISTRATION : https://bit.ly/45zuRKE 3. 2025 AANHPI Unity Summit WHEN: September 16-17, 2025 WHAT: 2025 AANHPI Unity Summit WHERE: · Sept 16 : Holiday Inn National Airport · Sept 17 : U.S. Capitol – Rayburn House Office Building, Room 2044 REGISTRATION : https://bit.ly/4fDJ9hO # # # APA Justice Task Force is a non-partisan platform to build a sustainable ecosystem that addresses racial profiling concerns and to facilitate, inform, and advocate on selected issues related to justice and fairness for the Asian Pacific American community. For more information, please refer to the new APA Justice website under development at www.apajusticetaskforce.org . We value your feedback. Please send your comments to contact@apajustice.org . Back View PDF August 19, 2025 Previous Newsletter Next Newsletter

Newsletter - #290 Special Edition: McCarthyism and The Good, Bad, and Ugly of The Media #290 Special Edition: McCarthyism and The Good, Bad, and Ugly of The Media In This Issue #290 · Rise and Fall of McCarthyism with The Media · Historical Media Bias Against U.S. Persons of Asian Origin · Role of Media in The Wen Ho Lee Case and The Yanping Chen Case · Media's Role in a Modern McCarthyism - The "China Initiative" · McCarthyism Expanding to Beyond Scientists · News and Activities for the Communities During "China Week" in September 2024, Representative Judy Chu , Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), took the House floor to denounce efforts to revive the "China Initiative," calling it a New McCarthyism.This is a special edition on McCarthyism and The Good, Bad, and Ugly Roles of The Media. Rise and Fall of McCarthyism with The Media According to a PBS report on McCarthyism from August 23, 2006, in the late 1940s and 1950s, America was gripped by fears of communism’s spread, particularly in Eastern Europe and China. Capitalizing on these anxieties, on February 9, 1950, 41-year-old Senator Joseph McCarthy delivered his infamous "Enemies from Within" speech in Wheeling, West Virginia, claiming to have a list of 205 "card-carrying" communists in the U.S. government. Although he never substantiated this claim, it fueled the Red Scare and set the stage for McCarthyism, an era of intense political repression and paranoia.The media played a significant role in amplifying and spreading McCarthyism. Newspapers, radio, and television often reported McCarthy's accusations uncritically, lending credibility to his unverified claims. For instance, the New York Times covered McCarthy’s “205 communists” allegation without questioning its validity. Historian Margaret Brennan noted that McCarthy’s numbers changed frequently, saying, “he had no list. He had no names. It was all a big lie." Yet, the impact was horrific, 6,000 federal employees left the government in the last two years of the Harry S. Truman Administration. At the end of the McCarthy era, "there was never anybody in government that they could prove to be a card-carrying communist," Brennan said.Sensational headlines and broadcast coverage heightened public fear, reinforcing McCarthy’s portrayal of Communism as a pressing internal threat. Television brought the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) hearings and the Red Scare directly into American homes, magnifying McCarthy’s influence. The McCarthy-Army hearings, televised from April to June 1954, marked a turning point. Over 36 days, an estimated 188 hours were broadcast, reaching a large national audience. During these hearings, Army counsel Joseph Welch famously rebuked McCarthy, asking, “Have you no sense of decency, sir, at long last?” This moment is widely viewed as the beginning of McCarthy’s downfall. Most journalists initially refrained from challenging McCarthy due to Cold War tensions and fears of being labeled Communist sympathizers. However, broadcast journalist Edward R. Murrow played a pivotal role in countering McCarthyism. On March 9, 1954, Murrow’s See It Now broadcast exposed McCarthy’s fear-based tactics, marking a major turning point in public opinion.The following is a transcript for a 2-minute excerpt of Murrow's broadcast: "No one familiar with the history of this country can deny that congressional committees are useful. It is necessary to investigate before legislating, but the line between investigating and persecuting is a very fine one, and the junior Senator from Wisconsin has stepped over it repeatedly. His primary achievement has been in confusing the public mind as between the internal and the external threats of communism. We must not confuse dissent with disloyalty. We must remember always that accusation is not proof, and that conviction depends upon evidence and due process of law. We will not walk in fear, one of another. We will not be driven by fear into an age of unreason, if we dig deep in our history and our doctrine, and remember that we are not descended from fearful men—not from men who feared to write, to speak, to associate, and to defend causes that were for the moment unpopular. This is no time for men who oppose Senator McCarthy's methods to keep silent, or for those who approve. We can deny our heritage and our history, but we cannot escape responsibility for the result. There is no way for a citizen of a republic to abdicate his responsibilities. As a nation, we have come into our full inheritance at a tender age. We proclaim ourselves, as indeed we are, the defenders of freedom—wherever it continues to exist in the world—but we cannot defend freedom abroad by deserting it at home. The actions of the junior Senator from Wisconsin have caused alarm and dismay amongst our allies abroad and given considerable comfort to our enemies. And whose fault is that? Not really his. He didn’t create this situation of fear; he merely exploited it—and rather successfully. Cassius was right: "The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, but in ourselves. Good night, and good luck." Edward R. Murrow profoundly shaped broadcast journalism, setting standards with his commitment to factual reporting, democratic principles, and the press’s role as a vigilant watchdog. The Edward R. Murrow College of Communication at Washington State University continues this legacy, promoting ethical journalism, strategic communication, and digital media, all inspired by Murrow's unwavering dedication to integrity and accountability in the media. References and Links Edward R. Murrow College of Communication at Washington State University: website 2017/04/23 YouTube : Edward R. Murrow - See It Now (March 9, 1954) (2:02)2014/12/16 C-SPAN : Senator Joe McCarthy's "Enemies from Within" Speech (14:59)2006/08/23 PBS : McCarthyism Historical Media Bias Against U.S. Persons of Asian Origin Throughout U.S. history, media have often depicted Americans and immigrants of Asian origin through biased and derogatory stereotypes, particularly during times of geopolitical tension. Their coverage has fueled harmful public perceptions and policies with lasting impacts on Asian communities.Notwithstanding the 61-year Chinese Exclusion era (1882-1943) and the Alien Land Law period from the first state law in California in 1913 to the mid 1950s, American newspapers contributed to the anti-Japanese sentiment by portraying Japanese Americans as disloyal spies or saboteurs. Headlines warned of a “Fifth Column” within the U.S., stoking fear and prejudice. This coverage, often based on unsubstantiated claims, helped garner public support for the internment of 120,000 persons of Japanese heritage, about two thirds of them U.S. citizens.No Japanese American was ever proven to have committed espionage for Japan during World War II, despite extensive U.S. government investigations.Before his children books, Dr. Seuss ( Theodor Seuss Geisel ) worked as a political cartoonist and propagandist during World War II, creating cartoons and illustrations that were published in newspapers and used in military training films. One of his infamous cartoons on February 13, 1942, shows Japanese Americans lined up as the "Fifth Column" along the West Coast, awaiting "the signal from home," playing into widespread fear and prejudice and helped to justify Japanese American internment and other discriminatory measures. On February 21, 1942, two days after President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066 authorizing internment, the Los Angeles Times published an editorial endorsing it, asserting that Japanese Americans posed a national security risk. Along with other outlets, the LA Times shaped public opinion by promoting fear-based narratives questioning Japanese American loyalty.Seventy-five years later, on February 19, 2017, the LA Times formally recanted its 1942 editorials. Acknowledging the paper's role in promoting internment, it expressed regret for fueling anti-Japanese sentiment and drew parallels with current issues of xenophobia, discrimination, and anti-immigrant rhetoric. The 2017 editorial warned against repeating such injustices, highlighting the need to protect civil liberties for all. References and Links Wikipedia: Dr. Seuss 2017/02/19 LA Times editorial: Looking Back with Shame 2012/02/21 The Daily Mirror : Times Editorial Praises Japanese Evacuation Role of Media in The Wen Ho Lee Case and The Yanping Chen Case History repeated itself before the LA Times issued its 2017 editorial.On March 6, 1999, the New York Times identified Chinese American nuclear scientist Dr. Wen Ho Lee as a suspect in alleged espionage at Los Alamos National Laboratory. Using alarmist language, anonymous sources, and unsubstantiated allegations, the report relied heavily on stereotypes and ethnic background, fueling widespread public suspicion of Dr. Lee and, by extension, other Chinese Americans in the scientific community.. Dr. Lee was arrested nine months after the New York Times report and imprisoned in solitary confinement for nine months before charges were dropped. U.S. District Judge James Parker apologized to Dr. Lee, condemning the government’s handling of the case.On September 26, 2000, the New York Times published an editorial acknowledging its role and errors in uncritically accepting government claims, but it stopped short of a full apology.In 2006, Dr. Lee settled a privacy lawsuit, accusing government agencies of leaking sensitive information. The U.S. government paid $895,000, and five media organizations—the New York Times , Washington Post , Los Angeles Times , ABC News , and Associated Press —contributed $750,000 to protect their reporters from being compelled to disclose their sources. Dr. Lee’s case highlighted issues in journalistic ethics and transparency, but similar patterns emerged when Dr. Yanping Chen , a Chinese American academic and founder of the University of Management and Technology in Virginia, became the target of a federal investigation in 2010. Although no charges were filed, leaked details of the closed investigation surfaced in a series of Fox News reports in 2017, making misleading insinuations to accuse her of spying for China.In 2018, Dr. Chen filed a lawsuit against federal agencies, alleging Privacy Act violations and racial profiling. Her case raised broader concerns about government leaks and anti-Asian prejudice. Dr. Chen subpoenaed Fox News reporter Catherine Herridge to identify her sources. The U.S. District Court imposed a fine of $800 per day until Herridge complied. Herridge has appealed.On July 29, 2024, the Asian American Legal and Education Defense Fund (AALDEF) and a coalition of 11 organizations filed a 43-page amicus brief with the U.S. Court of Appeals in support of Dr. Chen. The brief addresses issues of racial prejudice and the negative stereotyping of Asian Americans, particularly in the context of government actions against Dr. Chen.The U.S. Appeals Court for the District of Columbia Circuit will hold a hearing of oral arguments on Dr. Chen's case on November 18, 2024. References and Links CourtListener: Chen v. Federal Bureau of Investigation (1:18-cv-03074) 2024/08/07 AADELF: The Red-Baiting of Dr. Chen and the Dangerous Target It Puts on All Asian Americans 2024/07/29 Chen v FBI 1:18-cv-03074: Brief of Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund and Asian American Advocacy Organizations as Amici Curiae in Support of Plaintiff-Appellee 2006/06/03 Washington Post : Wen Ho Lee Settles Privacy Lawsuit 2003/01/08 Wen Ho Lee and Helen Zia: My Country Versus Me: The First-Hand Account by the Los Alamos Scientist Who Was Falsely Accused of Being a Spy 2001/02/04 New York Times : The Making of a Suspect: The Case of Wen Ho Lee 2000/09/26 New York Times : From The Editors; The Times and Wen Ho Lee 2000/09/14 New York Times: Statement by Judge in Los Alamos Case, With Apology for Abuse of Power 1999/03/06 New York Times: BREACH AT LOS ALAMOS: A special report.; China Stole Nuclear Secrets For Bombs, U.S. Aides Say Media's Role in a Modern McCarthyism - The "China Initiative" In March 1950, Herb Block , a political cartoonist known as "Herblock" for the Washington Post , coined the term "McCarthyism" shortly after Senator Joseph McCarthy delivered his "Enemies Within Us" speech. This term describes the practice of making unfounded accusations of subversion, disloyalty, or treason without sufficient evidence. Today, McCarthyism symbolizes any campaign or movement that seeks to silence or punish dissent or perceived disloyalty through fear and intimidation, rather than through fair, evidence-based processes.Launched by the Department of Justice in 2018, the "China Initiative" reflects contemporary McCarthyism through its reliance on broad suspicion and racial profiling under the guise of national security. It was joined in effect by the National Institutes of Health in the name of research security and integrity. These initiatives then shifted focus from security concerns to profiling Chinese academics and scientists, fostering an atmosphere of fear and a chilling effect within academic and research communities. Many researchers of Chinese descent reported feeling unfairly targeted solely due to their ethnicity or international connections.The consequences of the "China Initiative" have been severe; even when charges were eventually dropped, individuals faced damaged careers, personal trauma, financial ruin, and even loss of life. Hundreds, if not thousands or more, of Asian Americans and immigrants, particularly those of Chinese origin, have been subjected to surveillance, investigations, and threats of prosecution. Many more endure daily assaults, hate incidents, and discrimination as a result. The media's role in the "China Initiative" brought a range of both positive and negative impacts. Jamie Satterfield , an investigative reporter for the Knoxville News Sentinel , played a crucial role in highlighting the wrongful accusations against Dr. Anming Hu , a University of Tennessee professor prosecuted under the “China Initiative.” Her reporting exposed significant flaws in the government’s case, illustrating how the FBI targeted Hu based on unfounded suspicions and employed aggressive tactics, including attempts to coerce him into espionage.Satterfield documented the trial proceedings in 2021 meticulously, revealing key admissions from FBI agents about false accusations and fabricated evidence against Hu. Her work not only drew national attention to the injustices faced by Hu but also sparked broader discussions about racial profiling, due process, and fairness within the framework of the "China Initiative," emphasizing its detrimental impact on innocent Chinese American academics.On December 2, 2021, MIT Technology Review published two investigative reports. The first report revealed that the "China Initiative" deviated from its national security goals. Key findings include a lack of official definition for the initiative, a shift from economic espionage to “research integrity” issues, and a high dismissal rate for cases. Notably, only about 25% of those charged were convicted, with about 90% of defendants being of Chinese heritage. The second investigative report highlighted gaps in the information provided by DOJ. MIT Technology Review constructed a database to track every case made public under the "China Initiative." Shortly after MIT Technology Review requested comments, DOJ updated its webpage, removing cases that contradicted its narrative of success. Less than three months after the MIT Technology Review reports, DOJ announced the formal end of the "China Initiative."Both Satterfield and MIT Technology Review exemplify the positive role of investigative journalism, utilizing facts and evidence to expose the overreach, profiling, and flaws of the initiative. Their efforts raised public awareness and sparked dialogue about racial bias in government investigations, holding agencies accountable and prompting policymakers and civil rights organizations to reconsider the initiative's efficacy and ethics, ultimately contributing to its termination in 2022.In contrast, some media outlets resorted to alarmist and sensational language, reinforcing stereotypes and depicting Asian Americans and immigrants—particularly those of Chinese descent—as potential threats. Headlines often emphasized national security concerns without adequate context, exacerbating public fears about espionage and fostering an atmosphere of suspicion. By uncritically repeating government statements, some of these outlets lent the initiative unwarranted credibility. They frequently overlooked the scientific and academic contributions of Chinese and Chinese American professionals, sidelining their valuable work and contributions to the American society. References and Links APA Justice: 11. MIT Technology Review Investigative Reports CourtListener: United States v. Hu (TV1) (3:20-cr-00021) 2021/12/02 MIT Technology Review : The US crackdown on Chinese economic espionage is a mess. We have the data to show it. 2021/12/02 MIT Technology Review : We built a database to understand the China Initiative. Then the government changed its records. 2021/06/13 Knox News : Trial reveals federal agents falsely accused a UT professor born in China of spying McCarthyism Expanding to Beyond Scientists There are continuing attempts by Republican members in Congress to reinstate the "China Initiative" or under a different name. Alien land laws are being revived and expanded at both the federal and state levels that will risk reinforcing racial discrimination."Enemies Within Us" against immigrants in a nation of immigrants has resurfaced as a prominent topic in the lead-up to the November 5, 2024, U.S. presidential election, framing a focus on Chinese influence in America. Media, politicians, and campaign ads are again promoting anti-Asian rhetoric and harmful political narratives and stereotypes about Chinese Americans as perpetual foreigners or national security risks. On September 3, 2024, The Washington Post released a report titled "How China Extended Its Repression into an American City," alleging Chinese government interference within U.S. communities. As explained in the Asia Times, "The Washington Post ’s Witch Hunt on Chinese Americans" lacks evidence. An October 4 opinion argues that the Washington Post report fosters distrust toward Chinese American communities by selective use of biased sources—primarily anti-CCP activists and U.S. government entities. By failing to represent voices within the Chinese American community who have diverse views on China, the opinion contends, the report risks fostering harmful stereotypes and echoing historical patterns of profiling minority groups based on geopolitics. A more balanced approach would involve perspectives from diaspora organizations that may experience complex, often nonpolitical relationships with Chinese institutions. It also warns against blanket assumptions about the loyalties of Chinese Americans, potentially leading to unfounded public suspicion of these communities.On October 21, 2024, a Wall Street Journal report alleged China of using hometown organizations in New York City’s Chinatown to influence local communities, pressure Chinese Americans, and advance its political goals. Without evidence of specific influence activities, Representative Grace Meng , the only Chinese American congresswoman from New York, was implicated in the Wall Street Journal report because of her association with Chinatown and hometown organizations.Chinatowns in the U.S. emerged as ethnic enclaves largely because of social, economic, and political conditions in the U.S. in the mid-19th century dating back to the Qing Dynasty. These communities offered safety, employment, and a cultural connection to home for new immigrants facing systemic discrimination and harsh labor conditions. Discriminatory laws forced segregation and led to the establishment of Chinatowns and hometown associations as self-sustaining neighborhoods where immigrants could find mutual support, housing, work opportunities, and Chinese-owned businesses, fostering community resilience against external hostilities. Guilt by association, the unfair assignment of blame to individuals based solely on their affiliations rather than on concrete evidence, was a central tactic of McCarthyism. While WWII-era suspicions focused on a supposed "Fifth Column" of internal threats, the "Thousand Grains of Sand" theory arose during the Wen Ho Lee case in the 1990s, insinuating alleged widespread infiltration efforts by Chinese agents. The term evolved to "Non-traditional Collectors" as the "China Initiative" began, with scrutiny directed toward Chinese and Chinese American scientists and academics suspected of espionage.Now , with media coverage increasingly emphasizing potential links to foreign influence in Chinese American communities, guilt by association appears to be broadening beyond scientists and researchers. With the Washington Post and Wall Street Journal already linking community organizations or elected officials to foreign interference based on limited or circumstantial connections, guilt by association, or a new McCarthyism, may become more pervasive again with the assistance of media. "We must not confuse dissent with disloyalty. We must remember always that accusation is not proof, and that conviction depends upon evidence and due process of law. We will not walk in fear, one of another. We will not be driven by fear into an age of unreason," - Edward R. Murrow References and Links 2024/10/21 Wall Street Journal : How Beijing Recruited New York Chinatowns for Influence Campaign 2024/10/04 Asia Times opinion : The Washington Post’s witch hunt on Chinese Americans 2024/09/03 Washington Post : How China extended its repression into an American city News and Activities for the Communities 1. APA Justice Community Calendar Upcoming Events:2024/11/03 Rep. Gene Wu's Town Hall Meeting2024/11/06 Asian American Women in Media and Music2024/11/10 Rep. Gene Wu's Town Hall Meeting2024/11/12 Threats to International Engagement and Academic Freedom2024/11/14 An Advice and Networking Event (Financial Services, Investing and Consulting)2024/11/15 Yangtze-Mississippi Regional Dialogue2024/11/15-17 AAASE Inaugural Annual Summit2024/11/17 Rep. Gene Wu's Town Hall Meeting2024/11/18 APA Justice Monthly Meeting2024/11/24 Rep. Gene Wu's Town Hall MeetingVisit https://bit.ly/3XD61qV for event details. NOTE: Because the regular scheduled day falls on the eve of Election Day, we have moved the next APA Justice monthly meeting to Monday, November 18, 2024. The virtual monthly meeting is by invitation only. It is closed to the press. If you wish to join, either one time or for future meetings, please contact one of the co-organizers of APA Justice - Steven Pei 白先慎 , Vincent Wang 王文奎 , and Jeremy Wu 胡善庆 - or send a message to contact@apajustice.org . 2. APA Justice Newsletter Web Page Moved to New Website As part of its continuing migration to a new website under construction, we have moved the Newsletter webpage to https://www.apajusticetaskforce.org/newsletters . Content of the existing website will remain, but it will no longer be updated. We value your feedback about the new web page. Please send your comments to contact@apajustice.org . Back View PDF October 30, 2024 Previous Newsletter Next Newsletter

Newsletter - #95 "China Initiative;" OSTP; ACLU, Sherry Chen, Mass Surveillance; 11/01 Meeting Summary #95 "China Initiative;" OSTP; ACLU, Sherry Chen, Mass Surveillance; 11/01 Meeting Summary Back View PDF November 10, 2021 Previous Newsletter Next Newsletter

Newsletter - #88 Rep. Raskin Remarks; Cooley Steps Up; House Hearing; White Paper; UTK; Week of Action #88 Rep. Raskin Remarks; Cooley Steps Up; House Hearing; White Paper; UTK; Week of Action Back View PDF October 11, 2021 Previous Newsletter Next Newsletter

Newsletter - #359 Andy Phillips to Speak on 11/3; Dr. Wen Ho Lee; 6/2 Meeting Summary Posted; C.N. Yang+ #359 Andy Phillips to Speak on 11/3; Dr. Wen Ho Lee; 6/2 Meeting Summary Posted; C.N. Yang+ In This Issue #359 · Attorney Andy Phillips to Speak at APA Justice Monthly Meeting · Recalling the Case of Dr. Wen Ho Lee · Summary of June 2025 APA Justice Monthly Meeting Posted · In Memoriam: Chan Ning Yang (1922-2025) · News and Activities for the Communities Attorney Andy Phillips to Speak at APA Justice Monthly Meeting Attorney Andy Phillips , Managing & Founding Partner of Meier Watkins Phillips Pusch LLP, will speak at the upcoming APA Justice monthly meeting on November 3, 2025. He represents Dr. Yanping Chen 陈燕平 in Yanping Chen v. FBI (24-5050) . Dr. Chen is a naturalized U.S. citizen from China and longtime educator who founded the University of Management and Technology in Arlington, Virginia. She filed a Privacy Act lawsuit against the U.S. Departments of Justice, Defense and Homeland Security, as well as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), after a 6-year investigation by the FBI into her past affiliations and immigration history concluded without charges in 2016. After the investigation closed, confidential information from the probe was leaked to media outlets, particularly Fox News reporter Catherine Herridge , which aired stories implying Dr. Chen was involved in espionage. Dr. Chen filed a lawsuit in December 2018 against the Departments of Justice, Defense and Homeland Security, as well as the FBI, asserting a coordinated violation of her privacy rights and focusing on the leak of protected investigation materials. In February 2024, a District Court held Herridge in civil contempt for refusing to disclose her source and imposed a fine of $800 per day—an order stayed pending appeal. The case has major implications for press freedom, racial equity, and privacy rights in national security investigations. APA Justice joined advocacy groups by filing an amicus brief led by Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund (AALDEF), arguing that the treatment of Dr. Chen reflects broader issues of systemic bias against Chinese Americans. On September 30, 2025, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit affirmed the district court’s order holding Herridge in civil contempt for refusing to disclose her confidential source despite a valid subpoena. Andy Phillips’s practice focuses on counseling clients faced with unfavorable media coverage or other reputational attacks. He has years of experience representing clients in defamation lawsuits before state and federal courts across the country. He has litigated against many of the country’s most well-known media organizations, including Rolling Stone Magazine , The New York Times , CNN , and Fox News . Andy is one of only six attorneys in the United States to be ranked by Chambers for expertise in Plaintiff’s-side First Amendment litigation . The virtual monthly meeting is by invitation only. It is closed to the press. If you wish to join, either one time or for future meetings, please contact one of the co-organizers of APA Justice - Steven Pei 白先慎 , Vincent Wang 王文奎 , and Jeremy Wu 胡善庆 - or send a message to contact@apajustice.org . Recalling the Case of Dr. Wen Ho Lee Dr. Wen Ho Lee 李文和 , a naturalized U.S. citizen born in Taiwan, was a senior nuclear scientist at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), where he worked for more than 20 years developing computer codes used to simulate nuclear explosions. In the late 1990s, amid heightened concerns about Chinese nuclear espionage, the FBI and Department of Energy (DOE) began investigating possible leaks of nuclear-weapons data to China. Dr. Lee became a target largely due to his ethnicity.In 1999, the government indicted Dr. Lee on 59 felony counts for allegedly downloading and transferring classified files from secure to unclassified computers. During the investigation, government officials leaked information to the press portraying Dr. Lee as a potential spy. Major media outlets including New York Times , Washington Post , and Los Angeles Times widely published these allegations, effectively convicting him in the public eye before trial.By 2000, it became clear that the government lacked evidence of espionage or criminal intent. Dr. Lee spent nine months in solitary confinement before pleading guilty to a single count of mishandling restricted data; the remaining 58 charges were dropped. Federal Judge James A. Parker publicly criticized the government for its handling of the case, apologizing to Dr. Lee for his treatment and calling the investigation an embarrassment to the nation.Following his release, Dr. Lee filed a civil lawsuit under the Privacy Act against federal agencies and five major media organizations that had reported the leaked allegations. Brian Sun , now a partner at Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP, served as Lee’s lead attorney. Brian Sun framed the case as a crucial defense of civil liberties, privacy rights, and due process, arguing that government leaks had violated Lee’s rights and irreparably harmed his reputation. He successfully navigated complex issues involving media source protection and the disclosure of sensitive documents, ultimately securing a landmark settlement.In June 2006, the case was settled: the U.S. government paid $895,000, and the media organizations contributed $750,000 toward Dr. Lee’s legal fees, with no admission of wrongdoing. The settlement, guided by Brian Sun’s litigation strategy, reinforced the principle that government officials cannot use leaks to publicly convict individuals without evidence.On June 3, 2006, Brian Sun told the Los Angeles Times that the settlement provides “a measure of vindication and accountability.” “We believe the settlement will send a message to government officials that they should not engage in unlawful leaks about private citizens,” he said, “and journalists should be sensitive in reporting information that is divulged from officials who have an agenda.”As noted in the American Physical Society's “ Viewpoint: Wen Ho Lee’s Settlement ” on August 1, 2006, the case of Dr. Wen Ho Lee remains a landmark in the intersection of science, national security, civil liberties, and media responsibility. The APS analysis emphasized that while the settlement brought an end to the litigation, it left unresolved the deeper tensions between government secrecy, press freedom, and the protection of individual rights. It underscored how Dr. Lee's case became a cautionary tale—reminding both policymakers and the scientific community that the pursuit of security must never come at the cost of justice, due process, or human dignity. Summary of June 2025 APA Justice Monthly Meeting Posted Summary for the June 2025 APA Justice monthly meeting has been posted at https://bit.ly/48ABX4J . We thank these distinguished speakers for sharing their insightful remarks and updates: · Judy Chu , Chair Emeritus, Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus; Member, U.S. House of Representatives · Judith Teruya , Executive Director, Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus · Jiny Kim , Vice President of Policy and Program, Advancing Justice | AAJC · Gisela Perez Kusakawa , Executive Director, Asian American Scholar Forum (AASF) · Ya Liu , Member, North Carolina House of Representatives · Juanita Brent , Member, Ohio House of Representatives · Edgar Chen , Special Policy Advisor, National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (NAPABA) · Aki Maehara , Professor, Historian, East Los Angeles College Past APA Justice monthly meeting summaries are available at https://www.apajusticetaskforce.org/library-newsletters-summaries *****On April 29, 2025, Professor Aki Maehara , age 71, was riding his electric bicycle home in Montebello when a car struck him from behind. The driver shouted anti-Asian slurs before and after the collision. Professor Maehara believes he was targeted due to his academic work and previous threats he had received.The attack left Professor Maehara with serious injuries, including a concussion, fractured cheekbone, neck pain, and a lacerated elbow. The dental damage was particularly severe, requiring extensive and costly dental implant surgery. Professor Maehara returned to teaching at East Los Angeles College shortly after the incident. A GoFundMe was updated in August 2025, describing his need for a home health aide and major dental surgery.The Montebello Police Department is investigating the incident as a possible hate crime and attempted vehicular homicide. Some have criticized the police investigation, claiming key information from Professor Maehara was initially omitted from the report. As of October 2025, the department has not publicly identified any suspects in the case despite being "No. 1 priority" since May. In Memoriam: Chan Ning Yang (1922-2025) Chen Ning Yang (杨振宁) , one of the world’s most renowned theoretical physicists and a Nobel prize winner, died on October 18, 2025, in Beijing at the age of 103 after an illness.Born in Hefei, Anhui Province, China, in 1922, Yang received his early education in China before earning his bachelor’s degree from the National Southwestern Associated University in Kunming during wartime. He later pursued graduate studies in the United States, earning his Ph.D. from the University of Chicago in 1948 under the mentorship of Enrico Fermi .Yang’s groundbreaking contributions reshaped modern physics. He and his collaborator Tsung-Dao Lee (李政道) proposed in 1956 that parity — long assumed to be conserved — could be violated in weak nuclear interactions. The theory was soon confirmed experimentally, leading to their shared Nobel Prize in Physics in 1957. Beyond parity violation, Yang made profound advances in statistical mechanics, gauge theory, and the Yang–Mills theory — a cornerstone of the Standard Model of particle physics.After teaching at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton University, Yang joined Stony Brook University in 1966, where he founded the Institute for Theoretical Physics (now named the C.N. Yang Institute for Theoretical Physics) and mentored generations of scientists. In 2003, Yang returned to China, joining Tsinghua University as an honorary professor and continuing to promote international scientific exchange.Known for his intellectual rigor and lifelong curiosity, Yang’s career spanned the era from wartime China to the quantum age, symbolizing the global nature of scientific inquiry. He inspired several generations of young people in both the United States and China to pursue science with passion and integrity. His legacy endures not only through his discoveries but also through his commitment to fostering dialogue between China and the world in science and education. News and Activities for the Communities 1. APA Justice Community Calendar Upcoming Events: 2025/10/23 C100 Asian American Career Ceilings Initiative: Asian American Women in the Law2025/11/03 APA Justice Monthly Meeting2025/11/03 Advocacy 101 for Scholars, Scientists, and Researchers2025/11/20 Cook County Circuit Court Hearing2025/11/25 Committee of 100 Conversations – “Recollections, Pioneers and Heroes” with Elaine ChaoVisit https://bit.ly/3XD61qV for event details. 2. In Memoriam: Jerome Cohen (1930-2025) Jerome A. Cohen , a pioneering scholar of Chinese law and a leading voice for human rights, died on September 22, 2025, at his home in Manhattan. He was 95.Born in New York City in 1930, Cohen graduated from Yale Law School, clerked for Chief Justice Earl Warren and Justice Hugo Black , and began his academic career at the University of California, Berkeley. Fascinated by China, he studied Mandarin in the early 1960s and went on to found the East Asian Legal Studies Program at Harvard Law School in 1964, the first of its kind in the United States.After Mao Zedong ’s death, Cohen joined Paul & Weiss, advising companies entering China and helping Chinese officials understand modern commercial law. In 1990, he joined New York University School of Law, where he mentored lawyers, judges, and human rights advocates from across Asia and became an influential voice in U.S.–China legal dialogue.Renowned for his intellect and integrity, Cohen defended persecuted lawyers and dissidents and never wavered in his belief that law could be a bridge to justice. His legacy endures through the institutions he built and the generations he inspired. # # # APA Justice Task Force is a non-partisan platform to build a sustainable ecosystem that addresses racial profiling concerns and to facilitate, inform, and advocate on selected issues related to justice and fairness for the Asian Pacific American community. For more information, please refer to the new APA Justice website under development at www.apajusticetaskforce.org . We value your feedback. Please send your comments to contact@apajustice.org . Back View PDF October 23, 2025 Previous Newsletter Next Newsletter

Newsletter - #130 New OSTP Director; 6/6 Meeting Summary; ODNI Report; DOS-Led "China House"; More #130 New OSTP Director; 6/6 Meeting Summary; ODNI Report; DOS-Led "China House"; More Back View PDF June 21, 2022 Previous Newsletter Next Newsletter

Newsletter - #234 Special Edition: Appeals Court Temporarily Halted Florida Alien Land Law (SB 264) #234 Special Edition: Appeals Court Temporarily Halted Florida Alien Land Law (SB 264) In This Issue #234 This is a Special Edition to cover the Appeals Court ruling to temporarily halt the enforcement of Florida's unconstitutional alien land law (SB 264) on February 1, 2024. On February 1, 2024, ACLU issued the following press release: "The Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals temporarily halted the enforcement of an unconstitutional Florida law, known as SB 264, against two Chinese immigrants who have challenged the statute in court. SB 264 bans many Chinese immigrants, including people here as professors, students, employees, and scientists, from buying a home in large swaths of the state. This decision comes after a Florida district court ruled against the plaintiffs’ motion to preliminarily block the law while the case proceeded."The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), ACLU of Florida, DeHeng Law Offices PC, the Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund (AALDEF), and the law firm Quinn Emanuel are representing Chinese immigrants who live, work, study, and raise families in Florida, but would be prohibited under SB 264 from buying a home, as well as Multi-Choice Realty, a local real estate firm whose business has been harmed by the law. "'As a Chinese citizen who was in the process of buying a home when this law went into effect, I’ve been extremely worried ever since,' said a plaintiff impacted by today’s ruling . 'Today’s decision is a relief for me and my family, and we hope that the courts will permanently halt enforcement of this law.' "The court of appeals unanimously held that the plaintiffs showed a substantial likelihood of prevailing in their arguments that SB 264 is preempted by federal law because Congress has already established a system of national security review of real estate purchases by foreign nationals. The court granted an injunction barring enforcement of the law against two of the plaintiffs while the court makes its decision on the merits of the appeal. "'There’s no doubt that Florida’s discriminatory housing law is unconstitutional,' said Ashley Gorski, senior staff attorney at ACLU’s National Security Project. ' The court’s decision brings two of our clients tremendous relief, and we will continue fighting to prevent this law from being enforced more broadly.' "Under SB 264, people who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents, and whose 'domicile,' or permanent home, is in China, are prohibited from purchasing property in Florida altogether. The sole exception is incredibly narrow: People with non-tourist visas or who have been granted asylum may purchase one residential property under two acres that is not within five miles of any 'military installation.' This term is vaguely defined in the law, but there are at least 21 large military bases in Florida, many of them within five miles of cities like Orlando, Miami, and Tampa—putting many major residential and economically-important areas completely off-limits. "A similar but less restrictive rule also applies to many immigrants from Cuba, Venezuela, Iran, North Korea, Russia, and Syria. But the law singles out people from China for especially draconian restrictions and harsher criminal penalties. "'Florida’s alien land law specifically targets Chinese individuals in clear violation of the Equal Protection Clause,' said Bethany Li, legal director of AALDEF . 'Today’s ruling should serve as a warning to other states who are considering passing similarly racist bills, steeped in a history when Asians were ineligible for citizenship and were told they didn’t belong. As a country, we should be making progress and passing laws that protect all communities rather than going back in time and reviving antiquated laws passed over a century ago.' "Florida’s pernicious new law recalls repeated efforts over the past century to weaponize false claims of 'national security' against Asian and other immigrants. In the early 20th century, politicians used similar justifications to pass ' alien land laws ' in California and more than a dozen other states, prohibiting Chinese and Japanese immigrants from becoming landowners. Florida was one of the last states to repeal its 'alien land law' in 2018. “'This Florida law is just like the alien land laws of more than a hundred years ago banning Asian Americans from owning land,' said Clay Zhu, attorney and managing partner at DeHeng Law Offices PC . 'It is unfair, unconstitutional, and un-American. We are encouraged by today’s decision from the court.'"Read the ACLU press release: https://bit.ly/3Utx0Ub“This prohibition blatantly violates the Fourteenth Amendment’s protection against discrimination,” Judge Nancy Abudu wrote. The Order of the Appeals Court is posted here: https://bit.ly/3HJij7T . The US District Court in Florida has scheduled hearings in Miami in April 2024. Media Reports · 2024/02/03 South China Morning Post: Florida law barring Chinese citizens from owning property in state blocked by US court · 2024/02/02 Politico: Federal appeals court narrowly blocks controversial Florida law barring Chinese land ownership · 2024/02/02 Reuters: US court blocks Florida law barring Chinese citizens from owning property · 2024/02/02 AsAmNews: Ban on Chinese land ownership in Florida blocked by federal court · 2024/02/02 The Capitolist: U.S. Appeals Court grants partial injunction against foreign land ownership limitations · 2024/02/02 Bloomberg Law: Florida Ban on Home Buying by Chinese, Other Nationals Halted · 2024/02/01 South Florida SunSentinel: Appeals court deals blow to Florida’s law on Chinese land ownership Legal Team to Give Briefing The legal team representing the Plaintiffs in the Florida lawsuit will give a briefing at the APA Justice monthly meeting on Monday, February 5, 2024. Confirmed speakers are: · Erika Moritsugu, Deputy Assistant to the President and Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Senior Liaison, The White House · Legal Team of ACLU, AALDEF, and DeHeng Law Offices PC · Nisha Ramachandran, Executive Director, Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) · Joanna YangQing Derman, Director, Anti-Profiling, Civil Rights & National Security Program, Advancing Justice | AAJC · Gisela Perez Kusakawa, Executive Director, Asian American Scholar Forum (AASF) · Lora Lumpe, Chief Executive Officer, Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft · Min Fan, Executive Director, US Heartland China Association (USHCA) · Sandy Shan, Executive Director, Justice is Global The virtual monthly meeting is by invitation only. It is closed to the press. If you wish to join, either one time or for future meetings, please contact one of the co-organizers of APA Justice - Steven Pei 白先慎, Vincent Wang 王文奎, and Jeremy Wu 胡善庆 - or send a message to contact@apajustice.org CALDA Statement in Chinese The Chinese American Legal Defense Alliance (CALDA 华美维权同盟) also released a statement in Chinese: 喜大普奔：上诉法院发布临时禁止令，SB 264被宣布部分无效！ . The statement noted that the three judges on the Appeals Court unanimously granted the restraining order. Liberal and conservative justices often disagree sharply in today's politically charged cases. That all three judges on the Appeals Court agreed unanimously in this politically controversial case once again proves that the plaintiffs are on the right side of justice.Read the CALDA statement in Chinese: https://bit.ly/3SoF1aj Timeline on the Florida Alien Land Law (SB 264) 2024/02/01 US Appeals Court temporarily halted the enforcement of SB 264 2023/08/21 Plaintiffs' legal team filed an appeal for preliminary injunction of SB 2642023/08/17 US District Court denied Plaintiffs' preliminary injunction motion2023/07/01 SB 264 became effective state law in Florida2023/06/26 US Department of Justice filed a statement of interest in support of preliminary injunction of SB 264 2023/05/22 A lawsuit was filed against SB 264 ( SHEN v. SIMPSON 4:23-cv-00208 ) 2023/05/08 SB 264 was passed by the Florida legislature and signed into state law by Governor Ron DeSantis Visit APA Justice for more information on "Alien Land Bills" in Florida, Texas, and other states: https://bit.ly/43epBcl . The Committee of 100 maintains a database and interactive data visualization to identify and track federal and state legislation prohibiting property ownership by citizens of foreign countries at https://bit.ly/3Hxta4B . Reps. Judy Chu (CA-28) and Al Green (TX-09) , who are leaders of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, have introduced the Preemption of Real Property Discrimination Act in Congress. Back View PDF February 3, 2024 Previous Newsletter Next Newsletter

July 17, 2019 On July 17, 2019, law.com published a commentary titled: “Daily Dicta: Prosecutions Don’t get much More Pathetic Than This Case Against a Louisiana Scientist.” “This case” refers to the prosecution of Dr. Ehab Meselhe , a prominent Egyptian American professor of the Department of River-Coastal Science and Engineering at Tulane University. There is a second defendant in the case, Mr. Kelin Hu (胡克林) , a computer scientist and research assistant professor at Tulane University who is a U.S. permanent resident born in China. Both men were charged by the U.S. government for conspiracy and attempt to steal trade secrets (a computer simulation program that models how the Mississippi River Delta might evolve due to environmental changes and projects the impact of proposed restoration efforts) and to commit computer fraud and abuse on May 29, 2019 (case number 3:19-cr-00061). According to a media report , Mr. Hu was dramatically escorted from the Water Institute of the Gulf building by Baton Rouge police officers and FBI agents. After the U.S. government admitted that “it cannot meet its burden of proof in this matter” on July 15, the case was dismissed by the Louisiana Middle District Court. “I was a federal prosecutor for 20 years in New Orleans, and I’ve never seen anything like this,” said Dr. Meselhe's lawyer. FBI Director Christopher Wray has testified in Congress on July 23 that The FBI has over 1,000 investigations open into attempted intellectual property theft, nearly all of them involving Chinese. Previous Next Another Bungled Economic Espionage Prosecution

Newsletter - #97 DOJ Changed Report; Trial Dates; Yale/Princeton/Stanford/SIU News; Happy Thanksgiving #97 DOJ Changed Report; Trial Dates; Yale/Princeton/Stanford/SIU News; Happy Thanksgiving Back View PDF November 22, 2021 Previous Newsletter Next Newsletter

Following a public campaign led by Maryland State Senator Susan Lee and a coalition in February 2022, Reps. Jamie Raskin and Judy Chu hosted a Democratic Member Roundtable on “Researching while Chinese American: Ethnic Profiling, Chinese American Scientists and a New American Brain Drain” in June 2022. It was the first congressional hearing where the profiling of Chinese American scientists and the damage to American leadership in science and technology were heard. June 30, 2021 Table of Contents Overview The Human and Scientific Costs of Racial Profiling Must be Heard Congressional Staffer Roundtable on Research Integrity Bicameral Letter Urging DOJ Probe into Racial Profiling Links and References Overview Watch the video here. (1:42:15) On June 30, 2021, Representative Jamie Raskin, Chair of the Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, and Representative Judy Chu, Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, held a Democratic Member Roundtable titled “Researching while Chinese American: Ethnic Profiling, Chinese American Scientists and a New American Brain Drain.” The Department of Justice (DOJ) has long targeted Chinese Americans in extensive investigations into foreign espionage, leading to multiple false arrests of innocent Chinese American scientists. These efforts ramped up in federal agencies under the Trump Administration’s China Initiative, causing numerous scientists to lose their jobs despite not unveiling chargeable criminal conduct. This roundtable examined the federal government’s alleged racial profiling of Chinese American scientists, and addressed how the continued harassment harms the broader U.S. scientific community. Opening Remarks by Representative Jamie Raskin: “That is not acceptable in the United States of America, which was founded on principles of equality and justice. We reject guilt by association, we reject notions of collective guilt or ethnic or racial guilt. The United States is a welcoming place, it is open to people of all backgrounds and to creative ideas, and to scientific research and inquiry. That is how we established ourselves as a world leader in innovation and technology, by allowing for free-flowing thoughts and theories. By targeting people who are ethnically Chinese, without evidence, we are hampering our ability to be that world leader and we are harming an entire community.” Opening Remarks by Rep. Judy Chu: “We need to make sure we don’t repeat the mistakes of the Cold War. That means not spreading unfounded suspicions that paint all Chinese people as threats and which put innocent Chinese Americans at risk.” Witnesses and Their Testimonies Sherry Chen , a renowned hydrologist who was falsely accused of espionage in 2014, described the long-lasting effects of her mistaken arrest: “Until now, my life is still in limbo. My reputation is still under a cloud. The ordeal has taken away precious time in my professional career, and I can never recover the years I have lost. This injustice has now entered its tenth year and sadly there is still no end in sight. I keep fighting not only for myself but to do my part to make sure no one should ever be harmed because of their race or country origin.” Her written testimony: https://bit.ly/3S46zmo The Honorable Steven Chu , former Secretary of Energy and current Stanford professor, characterized the impact of racial profiling on Chinese American scientists: “Many of my Chinese-American faculty colleagues feel that they are under increased and unjustified scrutiny by the U.S. government. The Department of Justice’s ‘China Initiative’ and statements by U.S. funding agencies is [ sic ] creating an atmosphere of fear and intimidation.” His written testimony: https://bit.ly/3S4pTA8 Dr. Randy Katz , the Vice Chancellor for Research at the University of California, Berkeley, expressed how this targeting has affected the greater scientific community: “These investigations and related actions – such as the increased interrogation of Chinese-American researchers by Customs and Border Patrol officers at airports – have resulted in a chilling effect on our Chinese-American research community in particular, and America’s international collaborations and our continued ability to attract the world’s best and brightest. My university has seen a precipitous decline in graduate students, postdoctoral scholars, and visiting students from China that began even before the Covid-19 pandemic. This will have ramifications for America’s research enterprise for many years to come.” His written testimony: https://bit.ly/3Y9GoLo Dr. Xiaoxing Xi , a professor of physics at Temple University and naturalized citizen who was falsely arrested for alleged spying in 2015, explained: “People have asked me, ‘How can the Department of Justice avoid wrongly accusing innocent people like they did in your case?’ My answer is that they can’t unless they stop considering Chinese professors, scientists, and students as nontraditional collectors, or spies, for China. For example, in all the criminal cases involving university professors under the China Initiative, the DOJ has shown no evidence, zero, that those charged have stolen intellectual property. Yet, they are being prosecuted for felony crimes.” His written testimony: https://bit.ly/48kZUKe Statements from concerned advocates and experts including Maryland Senator Susan C. Lee , who contextualized the current racial profiling in the broader history of discrimination against Asian-Americans. American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology , which explained how actions taken by the Department of Justice and research grantmaking agencies has a chilling effect on international scientific collaboration. Asian Americans Advancing Justice | AAJC , which submitted a number of recommendations of how to address racial profiling. Asian American Scholar Forum , which noted that Asian American professors chose to stay in the United States because they “believe, in democracy, freedom of speech, rule of law, and the research environment of freedom and exploration without fear.” Asian Pacific American (APA) Justice , which explained that “whether it is with malice or implicit bias or both, the checks and balance system has failed not only individuals but also an entire group of people who are targeted for their race, ethnicity, and national origin.” The Committee of 100, which submitted the research of Andrew Chongseh Kim and white paper on Prosecuting Chinese “Spies:” An Empirical Analysis of the Economic Espionage Act . Defending Rights & Dissent , which raised concerns about the FBI’s rhetoric around the “alleged threat from Chinese Americans in academia.” Patrick Eddington , of Defending Rights & Dissent, who expressed that freedom of association and open scientific exchange are “absolutely essential to advance human progress on a range of issues.” Stefan Maier , who stressed the importance of “academic freedom and a healthy, global scientific collaboration” to addressing “global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change.” Tennessee Chinese American Alliance, called for attention to the recent trial of Dr. Anming Hu (United States v. Hu; Case No. 3:20-CR-00021) at Knoxville, Tennessee. Testimonies from the trial have alarmingly revealed the FBI’s violation of Dr. Hu’s civil rights and misconduct during the investigation. [download and link to PDF at https://bit.ly/48Gia0G .] The Human and Scientific Costs of Racial Profiling Must be Heard On February 1, 2021, concerns about racial profiling culminated in a request by an alliance of prominent scientific and civil rights leaders and organizations nationwide for a congressional hearing spearheaded by Susan Lee, Maryland state senator, and Terry Lierman, Co-Chair of the University of Maryland. For a good part of 2021, scholars, think tanks, media, professional and community organizations began to collect data, conducted surveys, analyzed case studies, and reported on their findings, most of them do not support the government’s rhetoric on the China Initiative and instead point to its damaging impact on individuals and communities, open science, and international exchange. The alliance wrote to Jamie Raskin, Chair of the House Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Civil Liberties and called for an oversight hearing to address the profiling of scientists and scholars of Chinese or Asian descent based on the misguided perception that simply being of Chinese or Asian descent or having ties to China make them prone to espionage. The alliance requested the committee look into the broad sweep of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s counterintelligence efforts and the National Institute of Health’s related actions against scientists of Chinese or Asian descent which have resulted in the loss of their jobs, reputations and devastation of their lives and families, even though they were later proven innocent. Maryland State Senate Majority Whip Susan Lee, whose district includes NIH, stated, “While we strongly support efforts to safeguard America’s interests and prosecute wrongdoers, it would be a grave injustice to target, stereotype, or place under suspicion an entire ethnic group. Many of these patriotic scientists have spent a lifetime of work dedicated to advancing medical breakthroughs which have made America one the global leaders in science and technology. They are a part of the solution to the United States’ global challenges, not a threat.” “The overzealous, broad, unchecked, and overreaching activities fueled by a xenophobic and toxic political climate have not only led to mistakes in investigations or prosecutions and civil rights violations, but also have crippled America’s ability to develop medical innovations that can enhance the quality of and save lives, especially during this Covid-19 pandemic. We need the committee to shine light on any discriminatory policies being employed by those agencies to ensure there is fairness, transparency and accountability,” said Terry Lierman. For decades, international scientific collaborations and exchanges between the United States and foreign academic and research institutions have been strongly encouraged and supported by the NIH and other academic entities, but now, they are being criminalized. “Science - like America itself - thrives on freedom, openness, and inclusiveness - there is no room for discrimination against men and women from China or anywhere else based on nationality," former White House science advisor Dr. Neal F. Lane said. "The PRC Government's rising nationalism and use of its economic clout to influence U.S. universities and society are real and growing, but any U.S. Government response that assumes all students, scientists, and scholars of Chinese descent are potential intelligence risks is unfair and unwise profiling that has no place in our democracy," said Dr. Wallace Loh, former President of the University of Maryland, College Park. To date, Congress has held numerous hearings focused only on the espionage threat, but it has not addressed the civil rights violations of Chinese Americans who have been wrongly targeted or the long term consequences and damages to the American research enterprise and minority communities if this pattern of racial profiling continues. “The Department of Justice launched the ‘China Initiative’ to counter perceived ‘national security threats.’ But the past two years have shown an over-emphasis on national security and an underemphasis on bias. I join others in calling for the end of the ‘China Initiative’,” said Professor Margaret Lewis of Seton Hall University Law School. “We are deeply concerned with the racial profiling and unjust prosecutions of Asian Americans and immigrants by the government,” said John C. Yang, Advancing Justice – AAJC’s President and Executive Director. “This latest wave of xenophobia has instilled fear within our communities as many Chinese Americans and immigrants are once again caught in our country’s long history of suspicion and racial discrimination against Asian Americans. We urge Congress to engage in oversight on this issue by holding a public hearing on this issue.” “Xenophobic targeting and persecution of Chinese Americans is causing irreparable damage not only to the impacted persons and their families, but also creates fear, suspicion, and hate towards the Asian American community. It must stop. It is grossly unjust and unfair to target an entire ethnic group from specific countries,” said Dr. Steven Pei and Dr. Jeremy Wu, Co-Leaders of the APA Justice Task Force. Full Package of Call for Congressional Hearing 2021/02/01 Calling for a Congressional Hearing on Racial Profiling of Asian American and Chinese Scientists Cover and Table of Content Press Release Letter to Rep. Jamie Raskin, Chair of the House Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Civil Liberties with Signatories Articles, Letters and Statements from Professional Associations, Organizations and Societies Congressional Staffer Roundtable on Research Integrity On May 5, 2021, a Congressional Staffer Roundtable on Research Integrity was organized by the majority and the minority of the Committees on Science, Space, and Technology; Commerce, Science, and Transportation; and Armed Services (House and Senate). Speakers for the event included: Dr. Sudip Parikh, Chief Executive Officer, American Association for the Advancement of Science Mr. Tobin Smith, Vice President for Science Policy & Global Affairs, Association of American Universities Dr. Maria Zuber, Co-Chair, NASEM National Science, Technology, and Security Roundtable; Vice President for Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology Mr. Alexander Bustamante, Senior Vice President, Chief Compliance and Audit Officer, University of California System Mr. Frank Wu, President, Queen’s College, City University of New York Frank Wu’s remarks emphasized three “Cs” that should be promoted and one “C” to be avoided: Consistency of rules and enforcement priorities (among agencies and over time) Clarity of policies Communications to promote compliance (including anti-bias aspects) And not Criminalization Bicameral Coalition Letter Urging DOJ Probe into Racial Profiling On July 29, 2021, Rep. Ted Lieu delivered a bicameral coalition letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland calling for an investigation into the Department of Justice's "repeated, wrongful targeting of individuals of Asian descent for alleged espionage." "Over the years, multiple people who happened to be of Asian descent have been falsely accused by the Department of Justice of espionage," including the false accusations of spying alleged against Wen Ho Lee , Sherry Chen , Xiaoxing Xi , Anming Hu , and many others. "The common thread in every one of these cases was a defendant with an Asian surname — and an innocent life that was turned upside down." "No person should be viewed by our government as more suspicious because of the individual’s race. We thus request an update on the mandated implicit bias training and request an investigation to determine whether the Department of Justice has a written or unwritten policy, program, pattern or practice of using race (or other civil rights classifications such as religion, gender and national origin) in targeting people for arrest, surveillance, security clearance denials or other adverse actions. We also specifically request whether, under the 'China Initiative,' there is a written or unwritten policy, program, pattern or practice to target people based on their race, ethnicity or national origin." Jump to: Overview The Human and Scientific Costs of Racial Profiling Must be Heard Congressional Staffer Roundtable on Research Integrity Bicameral Letter Urging DOJ Probe into Racial Profiling Following a public campaign led by Maryland State Senator Susan Lee and a coalition in February 2022, Reps. Jamie Raskin and Judy Chu hosted a Democratic Member Roundtable on “Researching while Chinese American: Ethnic Profiling, Chinese American Scientists and a New American Brain Drain” in June 2022. It was the first congressional hearing where the profiling of Chinese American scientists and the damage to American leadership in science and technology were heard. Previous Next 7. Congressional Roundtable on Racial Profiling

Newsletter - #402 NSF to Ban Most Research with China; National APA Museum; More ICE Shootings; + #402 NSF to Ban Most Research with China; National APA Museum; More ICE Shootings; + In This Issue #402 · NSF Moves to Ban Nearly All Research Collaborations With China · National APA Museum Commission Opens Comments as Trump Administration Report Defends Chinese Exclusion Act · ICE Shootings Mount as Trump Undercuts Reported DHS Vehicle-Stop Pause · News and Activities for the Communities NSF Moves to Ban Nearly All Research Collaborations With China Over the past several months, the National Science Foundation (NSF) has undergone the most significant governance disruption in its 76-year history — a dismantling of independent oversight that coincided with one of the most sweeping policy shifts in the agency's history: a near-total ban on research collaborations with China. Trump Fired the Entire National Science Board It started on April 24, 2026, when President Trump fired all 22 sitting members of the National Science Board (NSB) — the independent body that has jointly overseen NSF alongside its director since the agency's founding in 1950. Members received a terse email from the White House Presidential Personnel Office informing them their positions were "terminated, effective immediately," with no explanation given. The NSB's staggered six-year terms were specifically designed to insulate science funding decisions from short-term political pressure. Dismissed member Keivan Stassun (Vanderbilt) suggested the board's public criticism of Trump's proposed 55% NSF budget cut in May 2025 may have "antagonized the administration." Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-CA), the House Science Committee's ranking Democrat, called the firing "the latest stupid move made by a president who continues to harm science," and later led 31 House Democrats in a letter demanding the board's reinstatement. The move left NSF without both a board and a permanent director — Sethuraman Panchanathan had resigned in April 2025, and Trump's nominee to replace him, Jim O'Neill , still has not been confirmed by the Senate. As of late May 2026, the American Association for the Advancement of Science was still publicly pressing the Senate HELP Committee for an open confirmation hearing, and no replacements for the 22 dismissed NSB seats had been announced. With no confirmed director and no board, day-to-day authority has fallen to career staff: Brian Stone as acting director, and Rebecca Spyke Keiser — NSF's chief of research security — as acting chief of staff. A Sweeping New China Policy Emerged It is against this backdrop of leadership vacancies — an agency with neither a confirmed director nor a seated independent board — that NSF announced a sweeping new policy in July prohibiting U.S. scientists it funds from collaborating with nearly all Chinese research institutions and their employees. The policy, first reported by Science on July 10, 2026, and covered by South China Morning Post on July 14, 2026, marks a major reversal from NSF's earlier approach of weighing risks and benefits on a case-by-case basis. Under the new policy, NSF will bar interactions with employees of "restricted entities" — hundreds of major Chinese universities, national laboratories, and other research institutions identified on lists maintained by the Department of Defense and other federal agencies. Senior and key personnel on NSF awards will be prohibited from holding appointments at these institutions, receiving research support from them, or collaborating with them on NSF-funded work. The move replaces NSF's "Trusted Research Using Safeguards and Transparency" (TRUST) framework, introduced in 2024 to assess national security risks in grant proposals while still allowing collaboration to continue. At the time, Keiser — then NSF's chief of research security, now its acting chief of staff — argued that "we cannot continue to lead the world in science and innovation if we are fixated on achieving zero risk." That balancing act now appears to be over, at least with respect to China and other countries deemed national security threats: NSF's new guidance states plainly that "research security risk mitigation for NSF-funded projects involving these restricted entities is not sufficient." It is not publicly known whether the now-vacant National Science Board would have reviewed or weighed in on a policy of this scope had it still been seated — the board's precise role in this type of decision has not been reported. What is clear is that the policy was finalized during a period when NSF's normal channels of independent, external review were unusually thin. The shift also brings NSF in line with the Department of Defense, which tightened its own research security rules in January 2026, following a 2025 investigation by the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party that found roughly 1,400 research papers published between June 2023 and June 2025 involved collaboration with Chinese entities — more than half of them affiliated with China's defense research and industrial base. A Pending Broader OMB Rule The restricted-entity list is not comprehensive. Tsinghua University, for instance, is not currently included — despite recently hiring away 2025 Nobel Chemistry laureate Omar Yaghi from UC Berkeley. A broader rule proposed separately by the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) would bar collaboration with entire "countries of concern," including China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, rather than relying on institution-by-institution lists. Political and Diplomatic Reaction Rep. John Moolenaar (R-MI), chair of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, praised the policy as "commendable and commonsense," saying it "will protect taxpayer-funded research and innovation," and called on other federal agencies to follow the Pentagon and NSF's lead. China's government pushed back. Liu Chang , a spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in Washington, said U.S.-China science and technology cooperation is "inherently mutually beneficial" and urged American institutions to promote rather than restrict such exchanges. Some U.S. scientists are similarly critical. Stanford physicist Peter Michelson , who last year organized a faculty petition against similar restrictions Moolenaar tried to insert into defense policy legislation, called the NSF policy "very damaging" to U.S. science. China policy expert Denis Simon , former executive vice chancellor of Duke Kunshan University, warned that the policy hands Moolenaar "an open playing field to put anybody on the [banned] list." Open Questions Much remains undefined, including what actually counts as a "collaboration." It is unclear whether the ban extends to casual conversations at conferences or to co-authored papers where researchers worked independently. NIH and NASA appear to already be restricting co-authorship with foreign scientists under similar reasoning, and Kevin Wozniak of the Council on Governmental Relations (COGR) notes that NIH treats co-authorship as "a factor" — though not necessarily proof — of prohibited collaboration. What is Next NSF is accepting public comments on the policy and plans to finalize it in updated grantee instructions taking effect October 1, 2026 — the start of federal fiscal year 2027, when NSF says the policy will be fully implemented. Keiser and counterparts from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Department of Energy's Office of Science are scheduled to testify before Moolenaar's committee on July 15, 2026. Observers, including Simon, say they do not expect the hearing or public feedback to meaningfully alter the policy's course. Whether an eventually reconstituted National Science Board — or a confirmed director — will have any opportunity to revisit the policy remains an open question. National APA Museum Commission Opens Comments as Trump Administration Report Defends Chinese Exclusion Act The National Asian Pacific American Museum Commission is conducting a series of virtual information sessions to gather public input on the creation of a future national museum. These sessions are designed to engage the community, hear feedback, and discuss what a future museum could look like. They include Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Community Leaders , South Asian Community Leaders , and Students and Youth sessions. The Commission also encourages you to share your voice by submitting a public comment. Every story, perspective, and experience matters. Together, our voices can help ensure that the many histories, cultures, and contributions of Asian Pacific Americans are recognized and reflected in this important national effort. The Commission’s link to submit a public comment is located here: https://bit.ly/4gJhVct . Please submit your comment by July 31, 2026. The bipartisan Commission, established by Congress in 2022 (Public Law 117-140) and formally launched in June 2025, is completing its nationwide tour. It is entering its final stretch toward an October 2026 report to Congress and the President, which will lay out a comprehensive plan for establishing, funding, and maintaining the museum, including site selection and projected costs. Trump Administration Report Defends the Chinese Exclusion Act Separately, the White House Domestic Policy Council released a report on July 4 titled Saving America's Story: How Ideological Capture at the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of American History Erases Our Heritage . The report is sharply critical of the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History, accusing it of portraying American history through a lens of "White supremacy, slavery, conquest, exclusion, hierarchy, racism, xenophobia, misogyny, and systemic injustice." Notably, the report specifically defends the 1882 Chinese Exclusion Act — the first U.S. law to bar immigration based explicitly on race — against the museum's characterization that the law was racially motivated, criticizing the exhibit's accompanying text for portraying restrictive immigration laws as "a tool of White supremacy." The report emerged from an executive order Trump signed earlier in his term, which had already led to a broader review of Smithsonian exhibitions and operations. According to NPR on July 9, 2026, Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch defended the institution's integrity in a memo to staff, emphasizing a commitment to "scholarship, nonpartisanship, independence, accuracy and integrity" in telling the fullness of America's story. The response from Asian American advocates has been swift and critical. Eunice Kwon of the Asian American Research Center at UC Berkeley called the report "a step backwards," noting that Congress formally and unanimously expressed regret for the Chinese Exclusion Act through House and Senate resolutions passed unanimously in 2011 and 2012. Kwon said the administration's effort to recast the law "as an economic dispute" while erasing the racial hostility and violence Chinese immigrants actually faced "is dangerous for our communities." Why This Matters Together Both developments intersect at a pivotal moment for how Asian Pacific American history is told at the federal level: as the Commission works to build the case for a dedicated national museum grounded in authentic, full storytelling — including the difficult chapters — the administration's Smithsonian report suggests a starkly different vision for how federally supported institutions should present that same history. ICE Shootings Mount as Trump Undercuts Reported DHS Vehicle-Stop Pause According to multiple media reports including AP News , Forbes , New York Times , TIME , and Washington Post , three men have died during Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) encounters in just over a week — in Houston, Biddeford, Maine, and now Florida — even as President Donald Trump publicly contradicted reports that the agency had moved to suspend most vehicle stops, and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)'s own account of events has shifted since. Separately, Minnesota prosecutors report a breakthrough in their long-stalled investigations into the January killings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. What Happened This Month On July 7, an ICE officer fatally shot Lorenzo Salgado Araujo , a Mexican national who had lived in the U.S. for decades, as he drove his construction crew to a Houston job site. DHS said the officer opened fire after Salgado Araujo ignored commands and attempted to ram the officer with his vehicle, but at least two of the passengers in the van have disputed the federal agency's account through their attorney. Former Houston city councilmember Robert Gallegos said Salgado Araujo was "racially profiled" — a man who had raised three sons and run his own homebuilding business. Less than a week later, on July 13, an ICE agent shot and killed Johan Sebastián Durán Guerrero , a 25-year-old Colombian national, after officers tried to stop a vehicle he was driving in Biddeford, Maine. DHS said the officer, "fearing for public safety," fired after Durán Guerrero attempted to flee in the vehicle. But that account shifted from what Sen. Angus King 's office initially relayed: King said DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin first told him the officer opened fire because the driver tried to "use his vehicle as a weapon" — a materially different justification than "attempted to flee." King also said Mullin told him officers were serving an arrest warrant, but not for Durán Guerrero himself. Advocacy groups say Durán Guerrero had a wife and young daughter and was authorized to work in the U.S. Neither shooting involved agents wearing body cameras, despite then-DHS Secretary Kristi Noem 's February pledge to "rapidly" deploy body cameras nationwide — a rollout that, per DHS, has now reached only about half of ICE field offices. Then on July 14, a third man died during an immigration encounter: a 28-year-old was struck and killed by a tractor-trailer in Florida while fleeing immigration and other federal officers. A Washington Post analysis published July 15 found that at least 17 motorists have been shot during immigration operations since the administration's enforcement ramp-up began — a scale considerably larger than the small number of high-profile cases that have drawn national attention. Separately, John Sandweg , who served as acting ICE director during the Obama administration, estimated roughly 18 traffic-stop shootings during the crackdown to date — a similar, independently-arrived-at figure. Trump Contradicts the Vehicle-Stop Pause — DHS Then Falls in Line Following the Houston and Maine shootings, ICE reportedly moved to suspend most vehicle stops — a change confirmed on the record when Sen. King's office said DHS itself had told them ICE was suspending traffic stops. But President Trump publicly contradicted that plan just a day later. In a social media post on July 15, Trump said ICE agents are "doing a GREAT job, one that has to be done," and insisted the agency must keep conducting stops to remove people he says were let into the country under the previous administration: "We CANNOT give up one of ICE's most important and effective Crime Fighting tools, THE TRAFFIC STOP!" Ending the practice, he wrote, would mean "playing right into the criminal's hands." Hours after Trump's post, DHS Secretary Mullin issued his own statement affirming that people in the country illegally would be "arrested and deported" — a response that, rather than clarifying the contradiction, appeared to align the department with Trump's position. As of this writing, it remains unclear whether ICE will formally reverse the suspension and resume most stops, or how the agency intends to reconcile Trump's public statement with the pause it reportedly ordered just a day earlier. Policing experts have long warned that shooting into moving vehicles is inherently dangerous and should almost always be avoided — a pattern critics say has repeated across these incidents, with officers confronting drivers and then citing the vehicle itself as the justification for using force. Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) said on July 14 she had urged Mullin "to cease all non-urgent vehicle stops," though she also cautioned on X that "it is important to remember that the work ICE does to protect our country goes far beyond immigration enforcement." Collins faces a competitive reelection race in Maine, where hundreds of protesters gathered at her office this week over the Durán Guerrero shooting. Separately, internal dissent has surfaced within ICE itself: senior officials have reportedly blamed Trump's demand for mass arrests for the wave of deadly shootings, with one official warning that officers "pushed to the breaking point" are being forced into fatal confrontations. The killings came days after Trump ordered an arrest surge that swept up more than 10,000 people in five days, with field leadership reportedly told the White House expected 2,000 detentions daily. ICE has said it faces growing resistance to home arrests, as advisers increasingly tell immigrants to stay inside unless agents produce a judicial warrant — a dynamic the agency says pushes officers toward other tactics, including vehicle stops. The Political Stakes The shootings arrive at a politically sensitive moment for the administration. Trump's approval rating on immigration recovered from 38% in February — in the wake of the Good and Pretti killings in Minneapolis — to 42% in June, according to Quinnipiac University polling, even as his overall approval sits at 38%. Immigration remains a relative strength for Trump compared to other issues, but the pattern of shootings has become a flashpoint in competitive races, including Collins's in Maine and several Democratic primaries where candidates are divided over how aggressively to respond. Minnesota Follow-Up: Evidence Turnover in the Good and Pretti Cases Separately, Minnesota prosecutors announced a long-sought breakthrough: the Trump administration turned over evidence long sought by state investigators, including previously withheld hard drives containing statements and body-camera video, as well as Good's badly damaged SUV. Lawyers for Good's family called the transfer "an important and meaningful step towards justice and accountability." Despite the handover, no criminal charges have been filed against the federal agents who shot and killed Good and Pretti. The two Customs and Border Protection officers who killed Pretti were placed on administrative leave shortly after the shooting, but no indictment or known disciplinary action has followed against them or against Jonathan Ross , the ICE agent who shot Good. What's Next Investigations remain ongoing in Houston, Biddeford, Florida, and the two Minneapolis cases, with state and federal authorities continuing to clash over jurisdiction and evidence access. Salgado Araujo's killing marked at least the 21st shooting by immigration agents since Trump's mass deportation campaign began in January 2025, according to the New York Times , as reported by Forbes — underscoring that these incidents form part of a broader, ongoing pattern rather than isolated events. Whether the vehicle-stop pause survives Trump's public pushback, and how DHS intends to reconcile its own reported suspension with the president's explicit demand to continue stops, remains unresolved. This continues to be a fast-developing story with a pattern of shifting federal accounts — DHS's description of the Maine shooting alone has changed at least twice, from "weaponized" to "attempted to flee," even as the administration now appears to be walking back the policy response to the shootings themselves. Readers should expect further developments as investigations proceed. News and Activities for the Communities 1. APA Justice Community Calendar Upcoming Events: 2026/08/03 APA Justice Monthly Meeting 2026/08/05 C100: The Impact of AI on Asian American Careers in Technology 2026/08/07-09 AASF: Asian American Pioneer Medal Symposium and Ceremony 2026/08/26 C100: An Advice and Networking Event (Technology)Visit https://bit.ly/3XD61qV for event details. # # # APA Justice Task Force is a non-partisan platform to build a sustainable ecosystem that addresses racial profiling concerns and to facilitate, inform, and advocate on selected issues related to justice and fairness for the Asian Pacific American community. For more information, please refer to the APA Justice website at www.apajusticetaskforce.org . We value your feedback. Please send your comments to contact@apajustice.org . Back View PDF July 16, 2026 Previous Newsletter Next Newsletter

June 12, 2020 On June 12, 2020, Science Magazine reported that fifty-four scientists have lost their jobs as a result of NIH probe into foreign ties . Six questions are raised from the report about the National Institute of Health (NIH) investigations 1. Due process? What rights do the scientists have in terms of defense and representation? How are they informed and explained about these rights? How consistent is the decision process from case to case and from institution to institution? Are the standards public and publicized? How well are the scientists informed about these standards? 2. Shift and transparency in policy? As recently as July 1, 2014, current NIH Director Francis Collins spoke in Fudan University in Shanghai to promote international collaboration . This and similar reports have apparently been removed from the NIH website with one exception of this report about NIH leaders celebrate 30 years of research with China in 2009. Why were these reports removed? When did the shift in policy take place and why? How were the scientists notified of the change in policy? 3. How did NIH start these investigations? According to Page 19 of The Cancer Letter on April 26, 2019, Michael Lauer, NIH Deputy Director for Extramural Research, stated that there are three ways to identify potential problems: (a) FBI and other law enforcement agencies, (b) anonymous complaints, and (c) stewardship of NIH program staff. For the targeted 189 scientists at 87 institutions, what is the respective count by these three ways? How is their pattern and distribution similar or different from previous years? 4. Criminalizing science and scientists? If the NIH is under pressure from the FBI and law enforcement to conduct these investigations, does it undermine the standard NIH procedures to deal with scientific ethical and integrity issues that may not be intrinsically criminal? How many of the scientists under NIH investigations conduct open fundamental research and how many on sensitive research that threatens national or economic security? Does their punishment fit the alleged act? What was actually stolen? 5. How will the NIH investigations enhance U.S. leadership in science and technology? Dr. Xifeng Wu was among the first scientists forced to leave MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. She is now recognized for her significant contributions to manage the COVID-19 pandemic in China. She is a U.S. citizen. Her family still lives in Houston. How did her departure help U.S. leadership in science and technology? Same question for the 54 scientists. What threats have we mitigated by their departures? 6. Oversight and accountability? Is NIH open to third-party independent audit and review about the standards, process, and decision about these investigations? If so, would NIH cooperate with Congress and scientific/community organizations to conduct such audit, review, and oversight? In the case of Dr. Charlie Lieber, he was not charged as a spy. On February 3, 2020, Science Magazine reported that “[w]hat worries Andrew Lelling, U.S. attorney for the Massachusetts district, is that Lieber was allegedly paid to carry out research in China, which, combined with his failure to disclose those relationships, makes him potentially vulnerable to pressure from the Chinese government to do its bidding at some future point.” Are we punishing a child because one day he may grow up to be a criminal? How far have we deviated from a justice system based on facts and evidence, rather than pretext, for individual prosecutions or investigations? When was the last time the U.S. government targeted a nation and a people for law enforcement? These issues about accountability, oversight, and transparency are at the heart of racial profiling (according to the definition in H.R. 7120 Justice in Policing Act of 2020 ), justice, and fairness concerns for the Asian American community that led to the formation of the APA Justice Task Force in 2015. Previous Next 54 scientists lose their jobs from NIH probe into foreign ties