During the first APA Justice monthly meeting of 2023, Rep. Judy Chu, Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, reviewed the accomplishments of 2022, highlighted by the end of the "China Initiative" and Sherry Chen's historic settlement. January 9, 2023 During the first APA Justice monthly meeting of 2023, Rep. Judy Chu, Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, reviewed the accomplishments of 2022 which was highlighted by the end of the "China Initiative" and Sherry Chen's historic settlement after 10 years of fighting for justice. "Despite all of these wins, we know the work continues to ensure that we are engaging with our partners, the Administration across federal agencies, and my colleagues at Congress; to ensure that our communities are not facing anti-Asian discrimination and racial profiling. To that end, CAPAC will continue to prioritize calling out blatantly xenophobic anti-China rhetoric and pushing back on policies that unfairly target Chinese American communities, which we unfortunately are expecting to see much more in the year ahead," Rep. Chu said. The APA Justice Task Force was formed in 2015 in response to Rep. Chu's call for a platform to connect elected officials with concerned organizations and individuals. It is dedicated 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. Subscribe to the APA Justice YouTube Channel and watch additional APA Justice videos. During the first APA Justice monthly meeting of 2023, Rep. Judy Chu, Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, reviewed the accomplishments of 2022, highlighted by the end of the "China Initiative" and Sherry Chen's historic settlement. Previous Next Rep. Judy Chu's New Year Greetings and 2022 Review

Newsletter - #219 Anti-China Language; OK Governor Fact-Checked; Repeal of Chinese Exclusion Act; More​ #219 Anti-China Language; OK Governor Fact-Checked; Repeal of Chinese Exclusion Act; More In This Issue #219 · Survey Says Politicians' Anti-China Language Prompted Anti-Asian Violence · Investigative Report Contradicts Oklahoma Governor's Rhetoric On China Buying Up Land · 80th Anniversary of Repeal of Chinese Exclusion Act · News and Activities for the Communities Survey Says Politicians' Anti-China Language Prompted Anti-Asian Violence According to NBC News , a new poll revealed that most potential 2024 voters in battleground states believe that politicians’ use of anti-China rhetoric was responsible for the previous spike in violence toward Asian Americans. The results of the survey, conducted by the National AAPI Power Fund, is proof that voters “see through the scapegoating,” EunSook Lee , director of the organization, said. The poll, which was conducted in September, surveyed 900 likely 2024 general election voters across eight battleground states including Georgia, Nevada and Pennsylvania, in addition to California. It showed that 61% of likely voters believe politicians’ anti-China rhetoric, casting the country as an economic and national security threat, contributed to anti-Asian violence. The study also included surveys from Lake Research Partners that showed participants want to “hear solutions and not place blame,” Joshua Ulibari , partner at the research firm, said in a news release. “It’s important that candidates and organizations know that anti-China rhetoric doesn’t foster any short-term or long-term gains,” Ulibari added. “Candidates can and have won without pointing fingers at China or skirting responsibility for inflation and job creation.”“We know that anti-China rhetoric doesn’t just affect Chinese people. It affects Asian Americans because the public can’t distinguish between someone who’s Chinese and someone who’s not,” Stephanie Chan, director of data and research at the nonprofit Stop AAPI Hate, said. “We’ve seen how the political rhetoric then translates into even what people mimic and say when they are committing a hate act. So we are definitely bracing for that.”Read the NBC News report: https://nbcnews.to/3SBn8GT According to AsAmNews , China bashing loomed large at the third Republican Presidential debate Nov. 8 in Miami, Florida, setting off fears of a fresh wave of anti-Asian American hate crimes. “We have significant concerns about the 2024 election in the current political landscape, and believe hate crimes and incidents will continue to be an issue,” Manjusha Kulkarni , co-founder of Stop AAPI Hate, told Ethnic Media Services . The web portal, which allows victims to report hate attacks or incidents in one of several Asian languages, has logged over 11,500 reports since its inception in March, 2020.Read the AsAmNews report: https://bit.ly/49z8R3C Investigative Report Contradicts Oklahoma Governor's Rhetoric On China Buying Up Land According to Investigate Midwest , Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt told a Fox News reporter his state’s land was under threat from the Chinese “Communist Party.” Thousands of acres were being bought by China-based companies and individuals to build marijuana farms, if not for more nefarious purposes, the Republican governor said. Stitt was correct that Oklahoma has seen more land purchases by foreign companies or individuals than most other states. In fact, between 2015 and 2021, the amount of foreign-owned land in Oklahoma increased by more than 300%. Only Nebraska had a bigger jump. Across the country, lawmakers in statehouses and in Congress have been raising the alarm over the growth in foreign-owned land, often claiming the Chinese government is behind the purchases in an effort to control food supplies or spy on critical U.S. infrastructure. Some of the strongest rhetoric has been in Oklahoma, where the state’s rapidly growing medical marijuana industry has provided officials a political opportunity to seize on anti-Chinese sentiments that have intensified in recent years, especially among many Republican voters.But in Oklahoma, the growth in foreign-owned land pointed to by Stitt has little to do with marijuana farms or Chinese companies, according to records from the United States Department of Agriculture.Instead, it’s almost entirely from companies in Canada and Europe that bought or leased land to build wind and solar farms.The only Oklahoma land owned by a Chinese company in USDA’s records is a combined 2,571 acres held by Smithfield Foods, a large pork producer that moved into the state several years ago. Chinese companies did not account for a single acre of growth in 2020.Across the country, dozens of other states have also recently considered new laws to stop the growth in foreign-owned land, with some efforts explicitly targeting property owners with ties to China. In Congress, some have raised concerns about international espionage and highlighted the growing power of international agriculture corporations. Others have warned the rush to ban foreign ownership could harm immigrant farmers and ranchers. Read the Investigate Midwest report: https://bit.ly/3MCXRZc 80th Anniversary of Repeal of Chinese Exclusion Act The Chinese Exclusion Act was signed into law on May 6, 1882, to prohibit the immigration of Chinese laborers for ten years. It marked the first time the United States prohibited immigration based on ethnicity and national origin. The Chinese Exclusion Act was extended in 1892 for another ten years and then made permanent in 1902, each time with increasingly severe restrictions on immigration and naturalization. In 1943, at a time when the United States and China were allies during World War II, the ban on Chinese immigration and naturalization was finally repealed. However, immigration quotas remained, leaving a yearly limit of 105 Chinese immigrants. The Immigration Act of 1965 raised the quota to 170,000 immigrants from outside the Western Hemisphere, with a maximum of 20,000 from any one country. The Immigration Act of 1990 established a "flexible" worldwide cap on family-based, employment-based, and diversity immigrant visas.The Library of Congress has a large collection of historical documents on the Chinese Exclusion Act here: https://bit.ly/3QQZJQy The 1882 Project, a nonpartisan, grassroots effort focused on educating lawmakers and the public on the Chinese Exclusion Laws and the impact such legislation had on the U.S. history, worked successfully with the 112th Congress. In 2011-2012, Congress condemned the Chinese Exclusion Act and affirmed a commitment to preserve civil rights and constitutional protections for all people: the Senate unanimously passed Senate Resolution 201 , sponsored by Senator Scott Brown of Massachusetts, in 2011; and the House of Representatives unanimously passed House Resolution 683 , authored by Congresswoman Judy Chu 赵美心 of California, in 2012.Five national organizations spearheaded the 1882 Project: the Chinese American Citizens Alliance, the Committee of 100, the Japanese American Citizens League, the National Council of Chinese Americans, and OCA. Read more about the 1882 Project: https://bit.ly/3j7StPa . The 1882 Project was later turned into a non-profit foundation to promote public awareness of the history and continuing significance of the Chinese Exclusion Laws.This year is the 80th anniversary of the Repeal of Chinese Exclusion Act and also the 125th anniversary of the Supreme Court decision on Wong Kim Ark 黄金德. Wong Kim Ark was born in San Francisco to parents who were both Chinese citizens. At age 21, he took a trip to China to visit his parents. When he returned to the United States, he was denied entry on the grounds that he was not a U.S. citizen. In a 6-to-2 decision, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Wong Kim Ark and affirmed the birthright citizenship under the Fourteenth Amendment. The 1882 Foundation will host a commemoration and lecture at the Library of Congress in Washington DC on December 13, 2023. Visit the APA Justice Community Calendar for more information as it becomes available. Contact for the event is Ted Gong , Executive Director of the 1882 Foundation at ted.gong88@gmail.com Marty Gold served as pro bono counsel to the 1882 Project. He served as Floor Advisor and Counsel to Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist and was also counsel to Senate Majority Leader Howard H. Baker Jr . Marty Gold wrote a 616-page book titled "Forbidden Citizens: Chinese Exclusion and the U.S. Congress: A Legislative History" that traces the timeline and background of the exclusion laws. In collaboration with Marty Gold, Jeremy Wu 胡善庆, Co-Organizer of APA Justice, created a timeline visualization of the legislative history of the Chinese Exclusion Act in English here: https://bit.ly/4694kCa and in Chinese here: https://bit.ly/32VYbdm News and Activities for the Communities 1. APA Justice Community Calendar Upcoming Events:2023/11/15 1990 Institute Media Narratives - Evaluating U.S.-China Headlines2023/11/16 C100 Forum Debate: Has the Chinese Economy Slowed Down Permanently, Temporarily, or It Depends?2023/11/18 Inaugural Jimmy Carter Conversation on U.S.-China Relations 2023/11/18-19 National API Elected Officials Summit2023/11/19 Rep. Gene Wu 's Weekly Town Hall meeting 2023/11/26 Rep. Gene Wu 's Weekly Town Hall meeting 2023/12/05 Rep. Gene Wu 's Weekly Town Hall meeting Visit https://bit.ly/45KGyga for event details. 2. APA Justice Supports GWU Comments on NIH Draft Scientific Integrity Policy APA Justice joined a coalition of 11 organizations in sending a 10-page comment to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) on its draft scientific integrity policy. The effort is led by the Jacobs Institute of Women's Health at George Washington University (GWU). The coalition urges that the NIH scientific integrity policy contain: 1. Protections and accountability for grantees; 2. Commitment to equity for grantees and the scientific workforce; 3. More explicit procedures for investigating allegations; 4. Specifics that delineate scientists’ ability to communicate with the media and public about their areas of expertise, without leaving scientists vulnerable to bad-faith attacks; 5. Clarification of the scope and duration of scientific clearance procedures; 6. Penalties sufficient to deter wrongdoing and hold accountable all scientific integrity violators, including political appointees; 7. Specific protections from retaliation for those engaged in scientific activities that may put them at risk for reprisal; 8. Public availability of advisory committee members’ conflict-of-interest waivers; 9. A mechanism for addressing allegations that involve multiple agencies and/or high-level officials; and 10. Specifics regarding issues to be addressed by the Scientific Integrity Officer as opposed to other offices. On a related note, the U.S. Senate voted by 62 to 36 to confirm Dr. Monica Bertagnolli to serve as the Director of the National Institutes of Health on November 7, 2023. She took office officially on November 9. Back View PDF November 13, 2023 Previous Newsletter Next Newsletter

Newsletter - #71 06/30 Roundtable; 07/12 Meeting; Mistrial; "China Initiative;" Yellow Whistle; Alert #71 06/30 Roundtable; 07/12 Meeting; Mistrial; "China Initiative;" Yellow Whistle; Alert Back View PDF July 8, 2021 Previous Newsletter Next Newsletter

Reflecting on Prof. Gang Chen’s Case & Looking Ahead to the Future of the China Initiative 2022 Gang Chen Acquittal Sunday, January 30, 2022 On January 30, 2022, Asian American Scholar Forum (AASF), Advancing Justice| AAJC, APA Justice, and the Brennan Center for Justice co-hosted a webinar titled "Reflecting on Professor Gang Chen's Case and Looking Ahead to the Future of the China Initiative." The goal of this webinar is to examine the attempted prosecution of Prof. Chen in order to challenge the injustices resulting from the Justice Department’s “China Initiative.” We hope to educate lawyers, journalists, policy makers, academic leaders, and community members about the harmful impacts of the “China Initiative,” so that they can better contribute to the effort to bring the initiative to an end. Webinar 20220130G.jpg Previous Item Next Item

Newsletter - #24 New Cold War On Research; Culture Of Silence; Data And Research Needs; 2020 Census #24 New Cold War On Research; Culture Of Silence; Data And Research Needs; 2020 Census Back View PDF October 23, 2020 Previous Newsletter Next Newsletter

From generation to generation, the Asian Pacific American communities have been resilient in fighting against discrimination and protecting their civil rights. It is a continuing effort that transcends the China Initiative, which again confirms the commitment and determination of the communities from elected officials to organizations and individuals. February 27, 2020 Table of Contents: Overview Protesting Petitioning Elected Officials and Policymakers Speaking Out Against Racial Profiling Support of CAPAC and Congressional Members Collecting and Studying Facts and Evidence Timely Response to Urgent Needs Launch of The Anti-Racial Profiling Project The Role of The Media and Telling Our Side of The Story Building and Sustaining Allies Dialogue with the AAU Technology and Yellow Whistle During Pandemic and Beyond Keeping Up with History and Education for the Next Generations Links and References Overview February 27, 2020, is a symbolic date. It was the day when University of Tennessee Professor Anming Hu, a Chinese Canadian, was indicted by the federal government. He was the first academic to go to trial under the China Initiative. Hu was not charged for economic espionage, but for wire fraud and making false statements. The trial revealed the zeal of the misguided “China Initiative” to criminalize Hu with reckless and deplorable tactics of spreading false information to cast him as a spy for China and press him to become a spy for the U.S. government. He was cleared of all charges, marking one of the major turning points in the China Initiative. Unlike other timecards in this series, this section describes the evolving strategies and approaches used by the communities to address the China Initiative. These communities include both within and outside the Asian Pacific American groups, as well as the scientific and academic individuals and organizations. Throughout history, Asian Pacific Americans have faced various forms of discrimination, including xenophobia, racism, and institutional biases. From the struggles of early immigrants facing exclusionary laws to contemporary battles against hate crimes and racial profiling, the resilience of Asian Pacific Americans remains a guiding force across generations. It spans beyond any single initiative, including the China Initiative, or a particular moment or issue. From elected officials to grassroots organizations and individual activists, there is a collective dedication and broad commitment to confronting injustices and advocating for equality for all. The China Initiative may highlight specific challenges, but it served to reinforce the resolve of Asian Pacific American communities to combat discrimination in all its forms. Ultimately, the resilience of Asian Pacific American communities serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations. Addressing discrimination and advocating for civil rights for all requires a multifaceted approach. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, and different strategies must be employed to effectively combat injustices and promote equality. Despite the fears and threats instigated by the China Initiative, the communities used a combination of strategies and approaches to raise awareness and advocate; stand up and speak out; petition elected officials and policymakers; protest in person and in writing; talk and write to the media; collect facts and evidence; raise funds; educate; build allies; run for office and vote; and take legal action and go to court. Protesting Peaceful protest is a time-honored method of drawing attention to injustices and mobilizing collective action. Organizing protests, marches, and demonstrations can exert pressure on policymakers and institutions to address discriminatory practices. Organizations such as United Chinese Americans and the Asian American Scholars Forum, United Chinese Americans, and Tennessee Chinese American Alliance organized protests and rallies outside and inside the courthouses during the trials and hearings of Professors Franklin Tao and Anming Hu, as well as in front of the Department of Justice. References and Links 2023/09/20 Asian American Scholar Forum: Reminder to Attend Appeals Hearing of Professor Franklin Tao . 2022/01/11 United Chinese Americans: UCA Protest Outside DOJ and Press Conference for the Victims of the DOJ’s China Initiative–An Urgent Community Notice 2021/06/08 Tennessee Chinese American Alliance: Press Conference Statement on the trial of Professor Anming Hu Petitioning Elected Officials and Policymakers Writing letters, making phone calls, and organizing lobbying efforts were part of the persistent efforts during the China Initiative. About 30,000 persons joined a petition to then-President-Elect Joe Biden and called for the end of the China Initiative. Led by Stanford University faculty members, thousands of academics and researchers wrote to Attorney General Merrick Garland to terminate the China Initiative. Maryland State Senator Susan Lee led successfully a coalition to call for a Congressional hearing on racial profiling of Asian American and Chinese scientists. References and Links 2021/09/08 Winds of Freedom: Stanford Faculty Members Open Letter to AG Garland to End the "China Initiative" 2021/04/09 Advancing Justice | AAJC: Petition of 30,000 People to President Biden Calling for End of the China Initiative 2021/02/01 Maryland State Senator Susan Lee: Calling for a Congressional Hearing on Racial Profiling of Asian American and Chinese Scientists 2021/01/05 Coalition: Letter to President-Elect Joe Biden Calling for End of “China Initiative.” Speaking Out Against Racial Profiling Speaking out against racial profiling is a powerful form of resistance. Whether it is confronting prejudice in everyday interactions or addressing systemic inequalities through public advocacy, individuals can make their voices heard and demand change. On March 22, 2019, three major scientific organizations voiced their concerns about racial profiling by publishing an open letter titled " Racial Profiling Harms Science " in Science. The Society of Chinese Bioscientists in America (SCBA, 美洲华人生物科学学会), The Chinese American Hematologist and Oncologist Network (CAHON, 美国华裔血液及肿瘤专家学会), and The Chinese Biological Investigators Society (CBIS, 华人生物学者教授学会) represent the largest and a rapidly growing professional group for scientists, mostly of Chinese descent, in many biomedical disciplines. The letter spells out the concerns about the recent political rhetoric and policies that single out students and scholars of Chinese descent working in the United States as threats to U.S. national interests. On April 7, 2019, the Committee of 100 (C100 百人会) issued a statement condemning racial profiling against Chinese Americans during its annual conference in New York. The statement responds to FBI Director Christopher Wray and a few high-level American government officials, respected media outlets, and opinion leaders who have stated or suggested in recent years that all Chinese persons in America should be suspected of wrongdoing. However, "overzealous criminal prosecutions in recent years of innocent individuals such as Sherry Chen and Xiaoxing Xi, like Wen Ho Lee before them, have embarrassingly fallen apart, while ruining lives for no reason. Such targeting of individuals based on their ethnic heritage or national origin violates our shared American ideals. It simply has to stop." "Racial profiling is wrong and un-American in our nation of democracy." The statement concludes that "by standing up and speaking out for what is right and just, Chinese Americans can help lead the way in answering the call that is always before us as Americans: to embody more perfectly the ideals and principles of this great nation we call home." References and Links 2019/04/07 Committee of 100: Committee of 100 Condemns Chinese American Racial Profiling 2019/03/22 Science: Racial Profiling Harms Science Support of CAPAC and Congressional Members The Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) was established on May 16, 1994. Congressman Norman Y. Mineta, one of the founders of CAPAC, became its first Chair. CAPAC serves to ensure that legislation passed by the U.S. Congress reflects the interests and needs of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, educate fellow Members of Congress about the history and contributions of these communities, collaborate with other caucuses to protect civil rights, establish policies on legislation affecting individuals of Asian and/or Pacific Island ancestry in the United States, and coordinate the efforts of Asian American and Pacific Islander Members of Congress to achieve these goals. Since its founding, CAPAC has been a strong voice for the protection of the civil rights for the APA communities, especially in addressing the racial profiling issue and the China Initiative. Its efforts continue as CAPAC members themselves are also subject to racial profiling and McCarthyism. References and Links: 2024/01/23 CAPAC: CAPAC Members Lead Effort to Prevent the Relaunch Trump-Era China Initiative 2024/01/22 Rep. Grace Meng: Meng, Hirono and Chu Seek to Stop House Republicans From Relaunching Trump-era China Initiative 2023/04/26 CAPAC: In Joint USA Today Op-ed, CAPAC Members Chu, Krishnamoorthi Write: “In competition with Chinese Communist Party, anti-Asian rhetoric only divides” 2023/03/06 CAPAC: Chair Chu on MSNBC.com : "I am a target of the right’s new McCarthyism" 2023/02/23 CAPAC: CAPAC Statement on Rep. Gooden’s Xenophobic Remarks on Fox News 2022/11/14 CAPAC: CAPAC Chair Statement on Sherry Chen’s Settlement with Department of Commerce 2022/02/23 CAPAC: CAPAC Members Welcome End of China Initiative 2022/01/29 CAPAC: CAPAC Members Meet with Department of Justice Assistant Attorney General Matt Olsen on China Initiative Concerns 2021/10/29 CAPAC: CAPAC Members and Attorney General Garland Discuss China Initiative, COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act, and Language Access 2021/09/10 CAPAC: CAPAC Member Statements on Acquittal of Dr. Anming Hu After Mistrial Based on False Evidence 2021/07/30 CAPAC: CAPAC Chair Statement on Retrial of Dr. Anming Hu After Mistrial Based on False Evidence 2021/07/30 Rep. Ted Lieu: Rep. Lieu and 90 Members of Congress Urge DOJ Probe into Alleged Racial Profiling of Asians 2021/07/19 CAPAC: CAPAC Leaders Issue Guidance on Anti-China Messaging and Anti-Asian Violence 2021/06/30 Rep. Jamie Raskin: Roundtable Led by Reps. Raskin and Chu Hears about Effects of Ethnic Profiling Against Chinese American Scientists 2020/02/20 CAPAC: Raskin and Chu Launch Investigation into NIH and FBI Probes of Chinese Scientists 2020/01/20 Rep. Jamie Raskin: Raskin and Chu Launch Investigation into NIH and FBI Probes of Chinese Scientists 2019/07/17 CAPAC: CAPAC Members Applaud Successful Passage of Amendment to Address Racial Profiling of Chinese Americans 2018/02/15 CAPAC: CAPAC Members on Rubio and Wray’s Remarks Singling Out Chinese Students as National Security Threats Collecting and Studying Facts and Evidence Gathering data and evidence to substantiate claims of discrimination and refute false narratives is critical for building strong cases and advocating for systemic reforms. Conducting research, compiling testimonies, and documenting incidents of racial profiling provide compelling evidence to support advocacy efforts. Community and professional organizations, individual research, and the media have all contributed important data and studies about the China Initiative and racial profiling. References and Links 2021/12/14 Bloomberg Businessweek: China Initiative Set Out to Catch Spies. It Didn’t Find Many 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 2021/11/30 National Association of Scholars: Cracking Down on Illegal Ties to China 2021/11/05 New York Law Journal: DOJ’s China Initiative’s Three-Year Anniversary: Growing Pains and Uncertainty 2021/11/04 NPR: DOJ's China Initiative aims to counter theft of U.S. secrets and technology 2021/10/28 Committee of 100/University of Arizona: Racial Profiling Among Scientists of Chinese Descent and Consequences for the U.S. Scientific Community 2021/10 American Physical Society: Research Security Policies & Their Impacts: Key Results of APS Member Survey 2021/09/28 Law360: 'Overheated': How A Chinese-Spy Hunt At DOJ Went Too Far 2021/09/21 Committee of 100: Racial Disparities in Economic Espionage Act Prosecutions: A Window Into The New Red Scare 2021/09/14 SSRN: Red Scare? A Study of Ethnic Prejudice in the Prosecutions under the Economic Espionage Act , PIER Working Paper No. 21-022 2021/08/18 Jeremy Wu: The Importance of Data in Fighting Racial Profiling: from FedCases to "China Initiative” and Beyond 2021/02/09 Cato Institute: Espionage, Espionage‐Related Crimes, and Immigration: A Risk Analysis, 1990–2019 Timely Response to Urgent Needs On July 24, 2020, the U.S. ordered China to close its consulate in Houston, accusing it to be a "spy center" to conduct spying activities with local medical centers or universities. At about the same time, five researchers from China were arrested and alleged to be spies for China’s military. FBI agents began to knock on doors to demand interviews with persons of Chinese descent, creating widespread fear and anguish in the Chinese American community in Houston. On July 26, 2020, The Intercept published an article: Was The Chinese Consulate in Houston Really a Hotbed of Economic Espionage? According to the article, “people close to China-related investigations in Houston say the decision to close the consulate may be more about politics than spy threats.” During the APA Justice meeting on August 3, 2020, Houston community leaders provided on-the-ground reports and expressed grave concerns about a "witch hunt for spies” by the FBI to use Chinese Americans as “scapegoat” to justify the political claim, for which the U.S. government provided little supporting evidence. Local community leaders appealed to Congress to de-escalate the situation, rein in the rhetoric and irresponsible actions, and provide oversight to protect the civil rights of Chinese Americans. Within three days, OCA, UCA, Advancing Justice | AAJC, and the Asian American Bar Association of Houston co-hosted a “Know Your Rights” webinar on August 6, 2020, to address the urgent question, "What to do if you are questioned by the FBI or police?" Over 850 participated in the webinar. 2020年7月24日，美国命令中国关闭驻休斯敦领事馆，指责其为“间谍中心”，与当地医疗中心或大学进行间谍活动。五名来自中国的研究人员同时被捕，并被指控为中国军方的间谍。联邦调查局（FBI）特工开始挨家挨户敲门要求对在美华人进行采访，在休斯敦的华裔社区中制造了恐惧和痛苦。 7月26日，《拦截》杂志发表一篇文章： 中国驻休斯敦领事馆真的是经济间谍活动的温床吗 ？ 文章称，“接近休斯敦与有关中国的调查人员说，关闭领事馆的决定可能更多是关于政治，而不是间谍威胁。” 在 2020 年 8 月 3 日的 APA Justice 每月例会中，休斯顿社区领袖提供了实地报告，并对 FBI 利用华裔美国人作为“替罪羊”来为政治主张辩护的“政治迫害”表示担忧。美国政府对 “间谍中心” 的指控提供很少支持证据。 当地社区领袖呼吁国会缓和局势，遏制言论和不负责任的行为，并提供监督以保护华裔美国人的公民权利。 三天之内，2020年8月6日，OCA，UCA，Advancing Justice | AAJC 和其他组织共同举办“了解您的权利”网络研讨会，以解决紧急问题：“如果FBI或警察对您提出质疑，该怎么办？ ” 超过 850 人参加了此次网络研讨会。 References and Links 2020/07/26 Intercept: Was The Chinese Consulate in Houston Really a Hotbed of Economic Espionage ? 2020/07/23 Department of Justice: Researchers Charged with Visa Fraud After Lying About Their Work for China’s People’s Liberation Army 2020/07/22 NPR: U.S. Orders China's Houston Consulate To Close, Ratcheting Tensions 2019/08/21 Department of Justice: University of Kansas Researcher Indicted for Fraud for Failing to Disclose Conflict of Interest with Chinese University 2019/06/13 Bloomberg Business: The U.S. Is Purging Chinese Cancer Researchers From Top Institutions . 2019/04/19 Science: Exclusive: Major U.S. cancer center ousts ‘Asian' researchers after NIH flags their foreign ties . Launch of Anti-Racial Profiling Project While short-term actions such as in Houston were necessary, readily available resources were also being developed. On October 7, 2020, Advancing Justice | AAJC launched the Anti-Racial Profiling Project after several months of preparation. The goal of the project is to be a resource, advocate for non-discriminatory policies, provide legal expertise, and to lift up the voices of those impacted by the U.S. government’s increased efforts to target and profile Asian American and Asian immigrant scientists and researchers, particularly of Chinese descent. The concept was advanced by Frank Wu, now President of Queen’s College of the City University of New York, by an essay on “Why You Need A Lawyer.” Initial seed funding was provided by Clarence Kwan, former Chair of Committee of 100, and others. Gisela Perez Kusakawa served as the inaugural director of the project. Individuals seeking legal referral should contact AAJC via the Signal app with the number 202-935-6014 or text ONLY a name and phone number to 202-935-6014 and wait for an AAJC staff member to make direct contact. The project was expanded into the Anti-Profiling, Civil Rights & National Security Program in 2022 with the purpose of combating profiling and protecting the rights of Asian Americans and immigrants through policy advocacy, legal referrals, coalition building, and education for policymakers, the media and the general public. Joanna YangQing Derman is the current director of the program. References and Links 2020/10/07 AsAmNews: AAJC launches Anti-Racial Profiling Project 2020/10/07 Advancing Justice | AAJC: Launch of Anti-Racial Profiling Project Webinar (video 1:00:49) 2020/10/07 Advancing Justice | AAJC: Anti-Racial Profiling Project Description 2020/10/07 Advancing Justice | AAJC: Anti-Racial Profiling Project Webinar Presentation Package 2020/10/07 APA Justice: Anti-Racial Profiling Project Webinar by Dr. Jeremy Wu 2020/10/06 Advancing Justice | AAJC: Anti-Racial Profiling Project Press Briefing (video 52:28) 2020/04/17 Frank Wu: Why You Need A Lawyer 2020/04/17 Frank Wu: Why You Need A Lawyer 2020/04/17 吴华扬: 您为什么需要律师 Know Your Rights by ACLU : What do you do if the FBI or police contact you for questioning? 知道您的权利 （ACLU）：如果FBI或警察联系您进行询问，您应怎么做？ The Role of The Media and Telling Our Side of The Story Asian Americans must share their experiences and tell their side of the story about racial profiling to the media and the public as the government possesses significantly greater resources and access to disseminate its information. By voicing their perspectives, Asian Americans can ensure that their stories are heard and understood, contributing to a more comprehensive and accurate narrative regarding racial profiling and its impacts on the individuals and communities. This proactive engagement can help counteract misconceptions and biases, promote empathy and understanding, and advocate for policies and practices that address racial injustice effectively. Several media reports have significant impacts at different stages of the China Initiative: In August 2018, prior to the launch of the China Initiative, the Houston Chronicle reported an unusual FBI meeting with top leaders from academic and medical institutions in Houston to address security threats posed by foreign adversaries, signaling the launch of a new nationwide initiative. Houston, being a hub of academic and research institutions, was chosen as the starting location for this initiative. In April 2019, Science and the Houston Chronicle collaborated to produce a series of on-site reports revealing the targeting of Chinese American researchers at the MD Anderson Cancer Center by the FBI and NIH, subjecting the researchers to undisclosed investigations, searches of email accounts unknown to the individuals, and video surveillance. “MD Anderson officials maintain they had little choice but to act after they received letters from NIH detailing allegations and concerns about the researchers.” In essence, MD Anderson threw its faculty under the bus. The reports further deepened the concerns of racial profiling. In June 2019, Bloomberg Business published an investigative report titled “The U.S. is purging Chinese scientists in a new Red Scare,” identifying the NIH and FBI for targeting ethnic Chinese scientists, including U.S. citizens, searching for a cancer cure. It provided the first account of what happened to Dr. Xifeng Wu 吴息凤. In June 2021, University of Tennessee Knoxville Professor Anming Hu became the first academic to go to trial under the China Initiative. Knox News covered the trial end to end, providing a series of shocking, insightful reports as the trial progressed. Thanks to Knox News reporting, especially by reporter Jamie Sattefield, by the time Professor Hu was acquitted of all charges on September 9, 2021, his case would become a symbol of a failed, overreaching China Initiative. In December 2021, MIT Technology Review published not one but two investigative reports. Less than three months later, the Department of Justice announced the end of the China Initiative. Following a proposal by Paula Madison , businesswoman and retired executive from NBCUniversal, in April 2023, APA Justice hosted a virtual Inaugural roundtable to assertively address immediate xenophobic challenges to our freedoms and consider longer-term proactive actions to ensure fairness and justice for all, including the AAPI and immigrant communities. Over 100 community representatives attended and spoke at the online event. Efforts to build a national media network to strengthen the presence and voice of Asian Pacific American communities is an ongoing effort. References and Links 2023/04/03 APA Justice: Paula Madison Speaks at APA Justice Monthly Meeting 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 2021/09/09 Knox News: Former Tennessee professor acquitted of fraud charges in espionage investigation 2021/08/02 Knox News: Former University of Tennessee professor falsely accused of espionage faces second trial 2021/07/29 Knox News: How the FBI manipulated the University of Tennessee to find a Chinese spy who didn't exist 2021/06/16 Knox News: Trump Administration's first 'China Initiative' prosecution sputters as jurors deadlock 2021/06/14 Knox News: With spy case a bust, feds seek fraud conviction against University of Tennessee professor 2021/06/13 Knox News: Trial reveals federal agents falsely accused a UT professor born in China of spying 2021/06/09 Knox News: University of Tennessee assured NASA that professor had no prohibited ties to China 2021/06/07 Knox News: Trial of former UT professor centers on whether he concealed ties to Chinese university 2019/06/13 Bloomberg Business: The U.S. Is Purging Chinese Cancer Researchers From Top Institutions 2019/04/23 Science: After ousters, MD Anderson officials try to calm fears of racial profiling 2019/04/19 Science: Exclusive: Major U.S. cancer center ousts ‘Asian' researchers after NIH flags their foreign ties 2018/08/09 Houston Chronicle: FBI warns Texas academic and medical leaders of ‘classified’ security threats Building and Sustaining Allies The Asian Pacific American community needs allies to fight racial profiling because collective action and solidarity amplify their voices and increase their effectiveness in advocating for change. Allies from within our subpopulations, professional disciplines, and other racial and ethnic groups, as well as advocacy organizations and community leaders, can provide support, raise awareness, and challenge systemic injustices. Additionally, allies can help bridge gaps in understanding and empathy, highlight the intersections of racial profiling with other forms of discrimination, and advocate for policies that promote equity and justice for all. “Recent immigrants,” meaning primarily those who came from China within the last 30-40 years, now compose more than half of the Chinese American population, outnumbering the native-borns and the “old immigrants” who came from Hong Kong, Taiwan, and other parts of the world after the enactment of the 1965 Immigration and Naturalization Act. As the main victims of the China Initiative, “recent immigrants” have also become new advocates and leaders opposing racial profiling and the China Initiative. United Chinese Americans (UCA) and the Asian American Scholars Forum (AASF) are two of these organized efforts. The scientific and academic community is among the strongest allies during and after the China Initiative, engaging in every phase of advocacy, protest, and policymaking. References and Links 2023/01/12 Migration Policy Institute: Chinese Immigrants in the United States 2022/06 AAPI Data: State of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders in The United States 2022/02/23 Asian American Scholars Forum: Asian American Scholar Forum Welcomes the End of China Initiative 2022/01/11 United Chinese Americans: Press Conference for the Victims of the DOJ's China Initiative (online) and A Silent Protest in DC 2021/11/05 Science: China Initiative spawns distrust and activism 2021/10/29 University World News: Racial profiling of Chinese scientists is spreading fear 2021/09/08 Winds of Freedom: Stanford Faculty Members Open Letter to AG Garland to End the "China Initiative" 2021/09/01 American Physical Society: Letter to AG Garland and OSTP Director Eric Lander Dialogue with the AAU Founded in 1900, the Association of American Universities (AAU) is composed of America’s leading research universities which collectively help shape policy for higher education, science, and innovation; promote best practices in undergraduate and graduate education; and strengthen the contributions of leading research universities to American society. On September 9, 2022, Dr. Steven Pei and Dr. Jeremy Wu, Co-Organizers of APA Justice, joined a virtual meeting with Senior Research Officers at AAU. The meeting was moderated by Roger Wakimoto, Vice Chancellor for Research, UCLA. It included a 10-minute presentation by Drs. Pei and Wu on "Academic Freedom and Engaging Faculty on Campus - The Asian American Perspective" and a package of backgrounds and references , followed by questions and answers, and robust and productive discussions. The meeting continues our engagement and collaboration with AAU after Toby Smith, Vice President for Science Policy & Global Affairs, spoke at the APA Justice monthly meeting on June 6, 2022. Four wishes from the Asian American faculty perspective were presented to AAU: Engage faculty in the development and implementation of NSPM-33 and similar policies on campus to make sure clear instruction, sufficient support, and proper training are provided to faculty, researchers, and administrative staff. “Establish (an independent or joint with faculty senate) committee (preferably led by a Chinese American faculty) to evaluate, define and protect the rights, privileges, and responsibilities of faculty and administration in cases involving the investigation of faculty by outside agencies” - a resolution passed by the faculty senate of a founding member of AAU Offer and publicize first response followed by independent legal assistance. Consider legal insurance in the long term. Help faculty, staffs, and students to resolve visa, border entry, and related issues. Technology and Yellow Whistle During Pandemic and Beyond A year after the launch of the China Initiative, the COVID pandemic hit the Asian American community with two viruses simultaneously - the pathological coronavirus and the social injustice virus. Anti-Asian hate incidents and crimes spiked across the nation when increasing awareness about the prevalence and impact of discrimination was crucial. In times when physical gatherings are limited or not feasible, webinars, virtual events, and social media became powerful tools to maintain communications, share personal experiences, organize educational events, and amplify marginalized voices. These platforms enable organizations to host meetings, workshops, and conferences remotely, allowing participants from diverse geographical locations to come together, share ideas, and collaborate effectively. They provide a platform for marginalized voices to be heard, especially in short notice situations. On Patriots Day, April 19, 2021, The Yellow Whistle Project was started by Dr. Agnes Hsu-Tang and her husband Oscar Tang, Li-En Chong, and others in response to the anti-Asian hate and violence. The color yellow was chosen to signal the advent of spring, bringing hope, optimism, and enlightenment. The whistle is a symbol of self-protection and solidarity in our common fight against historical discrimination, anti-Asian violence, and racial profiling. It has a universal purpose - to signal alarm and call for help - for all Americans. The Yellow Whistle carries a simple and yet powerful message: “We Belong.” Over 800,000 Yellow Whistles have been distributed across the country to date. It continues as a symbol of hope, strength, and resilience for all Americans. References and Links The Yellow Whistle website: https://www.theyellowwhistle.org/ 2021/09/05 Axios: How the yellow whistle became a symbol against anti-Asian hate Keeping Up with History and Education for the Next Generations “Those Who Do Not Learn History Are Doomed To Repeat It.” Effectively incorporating the lessons from the China Initiative into education for future generations demands a multifaceted strategy that encompasses various key elements, including: Preservation of Facts and Information Development of a Comprehensive Curriculum Application of Interactive Learning Methods Promotion of Dialogue and Reflection Engagement with Communities Commitment to Continued Learning and Adaptation References and Links 2023/03/23 1990 Institute: Exclusion: The Shared Asian American Experience 2022/06/13 Representative Grace Meng: Meng Legislation Seeking to Establish First National Asian Pacific American Museum Signed into Law by President Biden From generation to generation, the Asian Pacific American communities have been resilient in fighting against discrimination and protecting their civil rights. It is a continuing effort that transcends the China Initiative, which again confirms the commitment and determination of the communities from elected officials to organizations and individuals. Previous Next 5. Communities Respond with Resilience

Newsletter - #6 Reminder Of August 3 Meeting With Updated Agenda And More #6 Reminder Of August 3 Meeting With Updated Agenda And More Back View PDF July 29, 2020 Previous Newsletter Next Newsletter

Newsletter - #66 Anming Hu Trial - FBI Agents Lied; Demers Leaving DOJ; OSTP Director On Federal Rules #66 Anming Hu Trial - FBI Agents Lied; Demers Leaving DOJ; OSTP Director On Federal Rules Back View PDF June 15, 2021 Previous Newsletter Next Newsletter

Newsletter - #319 NYU Shanghai; JACL et al v Musk/DOGE; Birthright/SB17/Student Visa Ban; Mahmoud Khalil #319 NYU Shanghai; JACL et al v Musk/DOGE; Birthright/SB17/Student Visa Ban; Mahmoud Khalil In This Issue #319 · NYU Shanghai Receives Record Number of Applicants · JACL and OCA Join Lawsuit Against Musk and DOGE · Latest on Birthright Citizenship, Texas SB17, and Ban on Student Visas · Who Will Be Next After Mahmoud Khalil? · News and Activities for the Communities NYU Shanghai Receives Record Number of Applicants According to Washington Square News , a New York University (NYU) student newspaper, on March 12, 2025, NYU Shanghai received a record-breaking 24,000 applications for its class of 2029. This surge aligns with NYU’s overall admissions growth, making it the most-applied-to private university in the U.S. The Shanghai campus maintains an enrollment of about 500 students per class, with half of the spots reserved for domestic Chinese students from China, Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan, and the other half allocated to international students, with around 53% from the United States and the rest from 156 other countries. NYU Shanghai’s class of 2027 received just 16,773 applications from 84 different countries. The campus’ class of 2026 received 16,059 applications and its class of 2024 received over 13,000. The rise in applications, particularly from Chinese students, reflects a growing interest in international education without leaving China.The university’s unique position as the first Sino-U.S. research institution in China contributes to its appeal, offering students opportunities for cross-cultural exchange and career advancement. However, while NYU Shanghai and other joint programs like Duke Kunshan University (an all-time high of 11,884 applications this year) have seen application increases, American student enrollment in China has sharply declined, largely due to political and visa restrictions. NYU Shanghai requires all students to study abroad for at least one semester, though some Chinese students worry about potential travel limitations. David Pe, Dean of Students at NYU Shanghai, emphasized the importance of encouraging more students from NYU’s New York campus to study in Shanghai, citing the growing need for global engagement. JACL and OCA Join Lawsuit Against Musk and DOGE As of March 15, 2025, the number of lawsuits against President Donald Trump 's executive actions reported by the Just Security Litigation Tracker has grown to 126 with two closed cases. The New York Times is tracking court rulings that have at least temporarily halted some of the president’s initiatives. As of March 15, 2025, there are at least 46 such rulings.On March 5, 2025, the Campaign Legal Center filed a lawsuit , Japanese American Citizens League v. Musk (1:25-cv-00643) , in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia on behalf of Japanese American Citizens League (JACL), OCA – Asian Pacific American Advocates, Sierra Club and Union of Concerned Scientists. The complaint alleges that under Musk’s leadership, DOGE has acted illegally to “slash federal funding, dismantle federal agencies and fire federal employees” to harming everyday Americans.JACL issued a statement that said: “Neither Elon Musk nor DOGE have the lawful authority to exercise the sweeping power that they currently wield in the federal government. However, since President Trump created DOGE and placed Elon Musk at its helm, Musk has exercised significant unconstitutional authority and taken control over our agencies and our funding systems. This illegal and reckless control over the federal government has upended the lives of countless individuals, both within the United States and abroad.” JACL Executive Director David Inoue said, “JACL joins this lawsuit to stop DOGE from making reckless cuts that will directly impact national historic sites under the National Park Service that are among those where over 125,000 Japanese and Japanese Americans were unjustly incarcerated during WWII. Regarding what DOGE has done thus far, OCA – Asian Pacific American Advocates Executive Director Thu Nguyen said, “The reckless budget cuts at the Department of Education are a direct assault on Pell Grant recipients, student organizations, and AANAPISI institutions that are vital to advancing educational equity.” Sierra Club Executive Director Ben Jealous said, “We are taking DOGE to court to defend Americans’ ability to safely and freely access the landscapes that unite us.” Union of Concerned Scientists President Gretchen Goldman said, “DOGE’s actions have interfered with life-saving research and scientific collaboration on cancer, vaccines, extreme weather and more. They have pulled funding for job-boosting clean technology initiatives and fired civil servants who enforce laws that protect us from air, water and climate pollution.” Latest on Birthright Citizenship, Texas SB17, and Ban on Student Visas 1. Birthright Citizenship According to Reuters on March 11, 2025, a third federal appeals court has ruled against President Donald Trump 's executive order seeking to restrict birthright citizenship, marking another legal setback for the administration. On March 11, 2025, the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Boston rejected the administration’s request to lift a nationwide injunction issued by a Massachusetts judge. This follows similar rulings by the 4th and 9th Circuit Courts, keeping the executive order blocked. Trump’s directive, signed on January 20, aimed to deny automatic U.S. citizenship to children born in the U.S. if neither parent is a citizen or lawful permanent resident, affecting an estimated 150,000 children annually.The 1st Circuit panel upheld the injunction, citing longstanding constitutional protections under the 14th Amendment and the 1898 Supreme Court case United States v. Wong Kim Ark , which affirmed birthright citizenship. Chief Judge David Barron criticized the administration for failing to present a constitutional defense of the order, instead attempting to disrupt established legal precedent. The lawsuits, led by 18 Democratic attorneys general, San Francisco officials, and immigrant advocacy groups, argue that the order would harm states by reducing federal funding tied to newly born citizens. According to the Washington Post and multiple media reports, the Trump administration has asked the Supreme Court on March 12, 2025, to allow its birthright citizenship ban to take effect in about half of the country while legal challenges continue. The administration argues that these injunctions limit executive power and wants them restricted to only the states involved in the lawsuits. Critics say this would create legal chaos, forcing migrants to travel between states to give birth and overwhelming courts with challenges. The policy faces at least eight lawsuits, and four nationwide injunctions have already been issued against it. Opponents argue the order is blatantly unconstitutional, violating the 14th Amendment and Supreme Court precedent from United States v. Wong Kim Ark (1898). The ACLU and state attorneys general argue that the executive branch cannot bypass the Constitution and must pursue a constitutional amendment to change birthright citizenship. Judge John C. Coughenour , a Reagan appointee, called the order politically motivated and unconstitutional, and his ruling is now on appeal to the 9th Circuit, with arguments expected in June.On March 8, 2025, Stanford School of Medicine hosted a teach-in on Birthright Citizenship and the 14th Amendment. Watch the video at: https://bit.ly/421Nnux (1:04:27)***** Trump Offers U.S. Citizenship to White Farmers in South Africa As Trump tries to strip birthright citizenship, according to CBS News on March 10, 2025, he reaffirmed his offer to grant U.S. citizenship to White farmers in South Africa, accusing the government of treating them "terribly" and promising "safety" and a "rapid pathway to citizenship." He criticized new land expropriation laws as "racist" and a violation of "human rights," leading to the halting of U.S. foreign aid.White farmers, reportedly making up less than 10% of South Africa's population, own around 70% of South Africa's arable land. This concentration of land ownership has been a focal point in debates about land reform in the country. Elon Musk , who was born in South Africa and still holds dual nationality, took to his X platform and criticized the government in Pretoria, claiming his Starlink satellite network was "not allowed to operate in South Africa, because I'm not black." South Africa's Electronic Communications Act , which, since 2005 has regulated broadcasting and telecommunications in the post-Apartheid country, requires that at least 30% of a company must be owned by previously disadvantaged groups as part of the criteria to gain a communications license. Starlink has not applied for a license to operate in South Africa. Clayson Monyela , the head of public diplomacy for the South African government's Department of International Relations and Cooperation, replied to Musk on X, saying: "Sir that's NOT true, and you know it! It's got nothing to do with skin color." 2. Texas Alien Land Bill SB17 Hearing According to AsAmNews on March 7, 2025, the Chinese community in Texas mobilized in large numbers to testify against Senate Bill 17 (SB17), which seeks to restrict property ownership for individuals from China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea due to national security concerns. While the bill exempts citizens, lawful permanent residents, and asylum seekers, opponents argue it unfairly targets Asian Americans, discourages investment, and echoes past discriminatory policies like the Chinese Exclusion Act and Alien Land Laws. Sen. Lois Kolkhorst , who authored the bill, defended it as a measure to protect Texas’ land and resources. Lily Trieu of Asian Texans for Justice contends there is no substantial evidence of foreign land ownership posing a security threat. The hearing on March 6, 2025, saw strong opposition, with testimonies emphasizing the bill’s impact on Asian American communities and Texas’ pro-business reputation. Debbie Chen of OCA Greater Houston warned, “This bill echoes historic anti-Asian policies... fostering discrimination and anti-Asian hate.” Another speaker called it a “job killer” that undermines fundamental property rights and economic growth. With Texas home to over 1.5 million Asian Americans, opponents argue the bill casts every Chinese individual as a potential adversary. The Senate Committee on State Affairs adjourned the hearing without taking a vote. 3. House Bill to Ban Chinese from Student or Research Visas According to AP News , Northwest Asian Weekly , South China Morning Post , and multiple media reports, a new bill to ban Chinese nationals from obtaining student visas is set to be introduced by Rep. Riley Moore (R-WV), reigniting debates over national security, racial profiling, and academic exchange. The Stop CCP VISAs Act seeks to block all student and research visas for Chinese citizens, going further than previous restrictions targeting specific fields. Moore's bill aligns with broader Republican efforts, including Project 2025, which calls for reducing visas from "enemy nations".Asian American advocates, however, call the bill xenophobic and counterproductive.Representative Grace Meng , Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, said that banning only Chinese students was “xenophobic and wrong-headed. We cannot give in to fearmongering tactics that will restrict the freedoms and economic opportunities that make America the envy of the world.” Rep. Judy Chu (D-CA) also denounced the bill, emphasizing that Chinese students contribute to U.S. academia and democracy, warning, “Unilaterally cutting off pathways of study for Chinese students… will make our country less innovative and the world less safe.” Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) warned that security concerns should be addressed “with a scalpel, not a bludgeon.” “No policy should target individuals solely on the basis of their national origin,” Fanta Aw , executive director and CEO of Association of International Educators (NAFSA), said in a statement. Yangyang Cheng , research scholar at Yale Law School’s Paul Tsai China Center, said the bill “should be seen as part of a broader effort to restrict academic freedom and hurt higher education in this country, to control what can be taught, which research projects can be pursued, and who have access to the classrooms and laboratories.” John Yang , president of Asian Americans Advancing Justice | AAJC, denounced the proposal, stating, “We strongly reject this move to paint all Chinese students as a threat and caution against racial profiling based on geography and not fact.” Democratic lawmakers and civil rights groups argue that such bans harm U.S. innovation, education, and diplomacy, while increasing discrimination against Asian Americans. In a public statement , Asian American Scholars Forum cautions that legislation like this would effectively harm the talent pipeline of Asian American scientists, scholars, and researchers, thereby undermining U.S. leadership in science and innovation. Who Will Be Next After Mahmoud Khalil? According to AP News , Intercept , New York Times , Washington Post , and other media reports, Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil , a legal U.S. resident and former Columbia University protest leader, was arrested by federal immigration officials and now faces deportation. Despite holding a green card, Khalil was detained on claims that his student visa had been revoked, and later, that his permanent residency was being revoked as well. Permanent residents are entitled to due process before any revocation of their status. Khalil's wife is a U.S. citizen and is eight months pregnant. The lawsuit Mahmoud Khalil v. William P. Joyce (1:25-cv-01935) was filed in the U.S. District Court of the Southern District of New York on March 9, 2025. District Judge Jesse Furman temporarily blocked Khalil's removal the next day, pending further judicial review on March 21. Khalil is currently being held at a federal immigration detention center in Louisiana. ACLU and NYCLU issued a statement that they have joined Khalil's legal team in filing a motion under the All Writs Act to compel ICE to return Khalil to New York, where he can have access to his legal counsel and family. According to a statement by the Asian American Legal and Education Defense Fund (AALDEF) on March 12, 2025, The arrest of Mahmoud Khalil is illegal and discriminatory. Its intended effect is to chill free speech and create a climate of fear among immigrants, chiefly Palestinian, Arab, and Muslim communities. In the 1950s, during the McCarthy “red scare” era, people with opposing viewpoints were labeled as communist and targeted for investigation, arrest, and harassment by law enforcement. In the past several weeks, ICE has raided Asian communities, seizing family members without warning, detaining and then deporting them. The new administration has weaponized the immigration system as a tool for policing and now political oppression, against many people who themselves came to this country to escape political oppression.The Khalil case raises broader concerns about free speech, racial profiling, and immigration enforcement that could impact Asian Americans, particularly activists and immigrants. His detention over alleged political affiliations—without criminal charges—mirrors past government crackdowns on dissent, such as post-9/11 surveillance of Muslims and the "China Initiative" targeting Chinese researchers. The case also highlights the vulnerability of green card holders, a status many Asian immigrants hold, as Khalil faces deportation without a conviction. If his case sets a precedent, Asian American activists, students, and immigrants could face increased scrutiny, government targeting, or restrictions on political expression.On March 14, 2025, AP News reported that Leqaa Kordia , a Palestinian from the West Bank, was arrested by immigration officers for overstaying her student visa. The Trump administration also revoked on March 5 the visa of Ranjani Srinivasan , an Indian citizen and doctoral student “for advocating for violence and terrorism.” ***** 2025/03/18 Stop AAPI Hate Community Town Hall on Anti-Immigrant Attacks WHAT : Stop AAPI Hate’s Community Town Hall on Anti-Immigrant Attacks WHEN : March 18, 2025, 7:00 pm ET/4:00 pm PT WHERE : Virtual Town Hall HOSTS : Stop AAPI Hate DESCRIPTION : ICE officials are raiding communities, businesses, and private homes. Asian immigrants are being shipped off to Central American countries. And millions of immigrants and people of color are living in fear of racial profiling, detention, and deportation. The Trump administration’s anti-immigrant agenda has put a target on the backs of our nation’s most vulnerable Asian communities — and we’re prepared to fight back. We’re bringing together advocates, organizers, and impacted folks for a virtual town hall on mass deportation and what it means for us. Register now to learn what’s at stake for immigrant communities and how different people are fighting for policies that protect our communities and our right to call this nation home. REGISTRATION : https://bit.ly/4iudJLv News and Activities for the Communities 1. APA Justice Community Calendar Upcoming Events:2025/03/18 Stop AAPI Hate’s Community Town Hall on Anti-Immigrant Attacks2025/03/21 Fighting Racial Profiling and the Criminalization of Academia in North America2025/03/26 Policing White Supremacy: The Enemy Within2025/03/30 Rep. Gene Wu's Town Hall Meeting2025/04/07 APA Justice Monthly Meeting2025/04/13 Rep. Gene Wu's Town Hall Meeting2025/04/24-26 Committee of 100 Annual Conference and Gala2025/04/27 Rep. Gene Wu's Town Hall Meeting2025/05/05 APA Justice Monthly Meeting2025/05/11 Rep. Gene Wu's Town Hall MeetingVisit https://bit.ly/3XD61qV for event details. 2. 03/21 SFU Webinar: Fighting Racial Profiling and the Criminalization of Academia in North America WHAT : Fighting Racial Profiling and the Criminalization of Academia in North America WHEN : March 21, 2025, 4:00 pm-6:30 pm PT/7:00 pm-9:30 pm ET WHERE : Hybrid event HOST : Simon Fraser University, Labor Studies Program DESCRIPTION : Join us for an important discussion on the case of Dr. Anming Hu , a respected scientist who was wrongfully targeted under the previous Trump administration’s China Initiative. Dr. Hu’s case highlights critical issues of racial profiling, academic freedom, and the growing surveillance of scholars in North America.This event will feature insights into Dr. Anming Hu’s case and experience, the broader implications for researchers of Chinese origin, and the fight for justice in academia in North America. We will also discuss what universities, scholars, and policymakers can do to protect academic integrity and prevent future injustices. REGISTRATION : https://bit.ly/3Fd11SD # # # 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 March 17, 2025 Previous Newsletter Next Newsletter

Newsletter - #242 Officer Angwang; CAPAC Update; Georgia Alien Land Law; What is Texas SB4? More #242 Officer Angwang; CAPAC Update; Georgia Alien Land Law; What is Texas SB4? More In This Issue #242 · AP Report on The Firing of NYPD Officer Angwang · CAPAC Updates from March APA Justice Monthly Meeting · Update on Alien Land Laws in Georgia · What is Texas SB 4? · News and Activities for the Communities AP Report on The Firing of NYPD Officer Angwang On March 20, 2024, AP reported that in a decision made public recently, New York Police Commissioner Edward Caban ordered the immediate firing of New York Police Department Officer Baimadajie Angwang 昂旺 on January 29, saying he disobeyed an order to submit to questioning by internal affairs investigators about the spying case against Angwang under the now-defunct "China Initiative." Federal prosecutors dropped all criminal charges alleging Angwang spied for China a year earlier. Angwang, 37, said he declined to appear before the investigators last year on the advice of his lawyers, because the NYPD refused to give them department documents ahead of the questioning that would have allowed them to prepare. Now he is considering taking the commissioner to court over his firing.“It’s extremely disappointing,” Angwang told AP in a phone interview. “I have to continue to fight, not just for me, for anyone who were wrongfully accused in the past who’s getting the wrongful treatment I just got at this moment, or any potential discrimination victims in the future. I will not give up until I find the justice.” Angwang, who also served in the U.S. Marines and was deployed to Afghanistan, said he believes he got caught up in the Trump administration’s effort to root out Chinese espionage across U.S. institutions, and alleges there were shades of racism targeting people with Chinese links.In firing Angwang, Caban chose a harsher penalty than what was recommended in November by an NYPD disciplinary judge who held a hearing on the firing and listened to testimony and arguments from both sides. The administrative judge, Vanessa Facio-Lince , found that Angwang violated department rules by disobeying the order to submit to internal affairs questioning. Facio-Lince said, however, that he should not be terminated, after citing his good record as a police officer and praise by his superiors. Instead, she recommended an alternate manner of Angwang leaving the department that would allow him to negotiate some terms of his departure, including partial retirement benefits. Angwang’s lawyer, Michael Bloch , said even the judge’s proposal was out of line with department disciplinary guidelines. Bloch said the maximum penalty Angwang should have faced was a 20-day suspension. Bloch said there have been many other officers who committed more serious misconduct and were allowed to keep their jobs, despite administrative judges recommending their firing. Angwang said it was ironic that the NYPD was firing an officer who immigrated to the U.S. and was supported by the immigrant community, when the department is struggling to make the force more diverse.“I just want people to be aware as an immigrant I served in the Marines. I went to combat. I went to Afghanistan,” he said. “I was able to become a police officer. I was able to become a community affairs officer. I was able to build a bridge between the underserved community and the NYPD, which never happened in the past. I gained a lot of support. And now, unfortunately, NYPD terminated that opportunity between the NYPD and the community.”Read the AP report: https://bit.ly/4ci2sv4 CAPAC Updates from March APA Justice Monthly Meeting During the APA Justice monthly meeting on March 4, 2024, Nisha Ramachandran , Executive Director, Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), reported that CAPAC Chair Judy Chu , First Vice Chair Grace Meng , and Senator Mazie Hirono wrote a letter opposing language in the Commerce Justice Science Appropriations Bill that would essentially reinstate the China Initiative. Nisha is pleased that language is no longer included. There is some language about directing the Department of Justice to provide a broader, more general report, such as outlining all the efforts that would be undertaken to identify areas of potential PRC espionage efforts. Congresswoman Meng and her team are credited for holding the line on this issue. This has been a major priority for CAPAC. There have also been ongoing activities with Professor Anming Hu . A letter was sent to USCIS to get clarity on the way they work on prosecutions and individuals who have issues coming out of the China initiative. CAPAC will also have its own appropriations process in terms of pushing forward its priorities. Research and security are certainly still top priorities in this process. A summary for the meeting is being prepared at this time. 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 . Update on Alien Land Laws in Georgia During the APA Justice monthly meeting on March 4, 2024, Thông Phan, Senior Policy Associate, Advancing Justice - Atlanta, provided updates on the alien land bills that are coming out of Georgia. HB 1093 did not get a vote on Crossover Day. SB 420 passed the Senate. Since the APA Justice meeting was held, SB 132 was quietly revived and passed out of the House Committee on Agriculture and Consumer Affairs. This was possible because Georgia has a 2-year legislative session, and SB 132 had already been passed by the Georgia Senate last year. Thông explains that they are very similar bills. Originally, SB 420 had a 25-mile radius outside of military installations, however, the most recent substitute bill for SB 420 changed its radius to 10 miles. SB 132 changed to mirror the language in HB 1093, which held its restrictions at 10 miles outside of a military installation. Both have restrictions on the purchase of agricultural land and some exemptions for residential property. Both target individuals as well as companies from China, Hong Kong, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Russia, and Venezuela. Something new in this year's bills is that violations of these bills carry penalties of possible felony convictions and monetary penalties of up to $15,000 and/or one or two years in prison.SB 420 passed the Senate on a 41 to 11 vote. It is now assigned to the House Judiciary Committee in Georgia. [which has a committee hearing on March 19, 2024. During the past year, Thông wrote a report, held a webinar, and convened community members and lawmakers to bring awareness to the bills. Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Atlanta has an action network letter that was signed by at least 1,400 people. It has been distributed in various forms to reflect changes in the bills as they moved through the legislative process. A coalition of groups in Georgia is working on this issue. Their focus is to continue lobbying, testifying against the bill, and getting community members involved. On March 12, 2024, AP reported on the passing of SB420. State Senator Nabilah Islam Parkes , a Democrat from Duluth, slammed the bill during debate on the Senate floor, comparing it to historical attempts by lawmakers in the U.S. to limit immigration from China and land ownership by Asian Americans. “This bill provides no real national security benefit, but does threaten the safety and security of Asian Americans, immigrants from Asia and other immigrants,” she said. “Questioning people’s loyalty, trustworthiness and dangerousness based on their country of origin is offensive and xenophobic.” Advocate Megan Gordon cited the litigation around Florida’s law to urge members of the Florida House Agriculture and Consumer Affairs committee not to push forward with similar legislation. “It doesn’t really make sense for us to wade into pending litigation in this way,” said Gordon, policy manager with the Georgia chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations. Thông Phan, with Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Atlanta, said the Georgia Senate bill wrongly treats citizens of China and the other targeted countries as their agents.“It targets individuals and families more so than it targets foreign governments,” he said in a phone interview with AP . “How is it effective in achieving national security?” Read the March 12 AP report: https://bit.ly/3VisbO1On March 21, 2024, multiple media including AP , Georgia Recorder , State Affairs , and Georgia Public Broadcasting reported the Georgia House of Representatives voted 97 to 67 in favor of SB420. Democratic Rep. Michelle Au , whose parents came to the U.S. from China, said regardless of intent, the bill would be perceived as racist and xenophobic by the people it could affect most. “This bill does not target intent, it restricts rights based on national origin, which is illegal,” she said. “Legality aside, put that aside for a moment, this bill, whether it’s supposed to be or not, paints a picture that residents from certain parts of this world cannot be trusted. They are essentially suspect and potentially traitors simply by dint of their nationality. Think about the message this sends to the international community. Think about the message this sends to business partners who’ve been proud to welcome and cultivate in the state, bringing vehicle and battery plants, manufacturing, huge technology, and export industries, and thousands of jobs that come with them.” Minority Whip Sam Park , a Lawrenceville Democrat whose grandparents were refugees from the Korean War, criticized the exemption for companies doing agricultural research. He said the bill could cast “a shadow of suspicion” on any Asian-American looking to buy farmland and echoes past examples of anti-Asian racism. “From the Chinese Exclusion Act that banned immigration from Asia and prevented all Americans of Asian descent from becoming citizens, to the forced relocation and internment of more than 120,000 Japanese Americans, to the rise in hate crimes and discrimination against Asian-Americans fueled by racist rhetoric and disinformation amidst the COVID -19 pandemic, it seems we have not come as far as we thought with respect to living up to our highest American principles and values of ensuring freedom, equality, and justice for all,” he said. Park and other Democrats referenced a Florida law (SB 264) similar to Georgia’s bill that was put on hold by a federal judge as a case moves forward into its constitutionality. What is Texas SB 4? Multiple media have reported on the recent legal whiplash on a Texas state law known as SB 4. A whirlwind of court orders briefly allowed, then blocked again, a highly questionable new immigration law in Texas that would allow state and local law enforcement to arrest and deport people who are in the state illegally. According to NPR , Texas SB 4 was originally set to go into effect on March 5. But the U.S. government and the ACLU both filed lawsuits against it, and a district judge issued a preliminary injunction to block the law from enforcement while the case was being heard. Texas appealed the injunction to the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals. The appeals court turned to the Supreme Court, which ultimately allowed the law to go into effect before the appeals court blocked it. The Biden administration has argued that Texas overstepped its constitutional limits in passing SB 4, and they maintain that immigration policy and law enforcement are exclusive functions of the federal government.Federal attorneys have repeatedly pointed to a 2012 Supreme Court decision known as Arizona vs. United States, a case about a state law in Arizona that sought to create state-level crimes for immigration offenses and empower local law enforcement to check citizenship status and arrest people suspected of being in the country illegally. In a 5-3 decision, the court sided with the federal government and struck down most of Arizona's law.Groups that advocate for civil rights and immigrants' rights have criticized the law over concerns that it could lead to racial profiling. SB 4 would allow law enforcement officers to question someone's immigration status for any reason. "We know that this law is going to increase racial profiling. We know that this law is going to strip people of their constitutional rights. We know that this law is also going to lead to the mass criminalization of our communities," said Alan Lizarraga , a spokesperson for the Border Network for Human Rights. Opponents also worry that migrants with legitimate claims to asylum could have their federal cases asylum complicated by the Texas law if they come to face state criminal charges.Mexico also opposes the law. Its foreign affairs ministry said in a statement that the country will not accept migrants who have been deported under the Texas law. And it expressed concern for Mexican nationals living in Texas, who it said could now be subject to "expressions of hate, discrimination and racial profiling." With the case back at the Fifth Circuit, Mexico said it plans to file a legal brief in opposition to SB 4 that lays out how the law could affect the relationship between the two countries, the statement said.Read the NPR report: https://n.pr/3TqN07f . News and Activities for the Communities 1. APA Justice Community Calendar Upcoming Events: 2024/03/24 Committee of Concerned Scientists Annual Meeting 2024/03/25 Committee of 100: Asian American Career Ceiling Challenges in Broadcast News2024/04/07 Rep. Gene Wu's Town Hall Meeting2024/04/08 APA Justice Monthly Meeting2024/04/19 Committee of 100 Annual Conference and Gala2024/05/02 AAGEN 2024 Executive Leadership Workshop2024/05/05 Rep. Gene Wu's Town Hall Meeting Visit https://bit.ly/45KGyga for event details. 2. Citizenship Question in Census Stopped On March 21, 2024, U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY) and U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI) announced that they stopped House Republicans from adding a citizenship question to the next United States Census. In 2018, then-President Trump pushed to add a question on the 2020 U.S. Census which would have asked respondents about their citizenship status. Meng and Hirono fought against the plan, and after the Supreme Court blocked it from moving forward, the Trump administration abandoned its crusade. But this past January, House Republicans revisited the effort, attaching a measure to a key funding bill that would have required the question to be on the 2030 census.Meng and Hirono led a letter to congressional leaders urging them to remove it, and the legislation was passed and signed into law without the citizenship question being included. Meng and Hirono had argued that a citizenship question would have caused an undercount of immigrant communities out of fear that the information they provide will be used against them. As a result, it would have jeopardized the Census Bureau’s ability to accurately count every person in the U.S.The lawmakers’ letter, which was signed by 48 other Senators and House members, was sent to House Speaker Mike Johnson , House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries , Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell . Read the announcement: https://bit.ly/4co81rZ . Back View PDF March 22, 2024 Previous Newsletter Next Newsletter

A Dialogue Between the Academic & Asian American Communities and the FBI 2024 FBI Dialogue, Hybrid Event Thursday, June 6, 2024 In 2022, the Department of Justice ended its China Initiative — a strategy to counter Chinese espionage and threats to U.S. research security — after academic and civil rights groups raised concerns about bias and damage to the United States' scientific enterprise. Since then, however, reports of border entry issues have increased for Chinese academic researchers and graduate students. This event brings together Jill Murphy, deputy assistant director of counterintelligence at the FBI, and the leadership of the FBI’s Houston field office for a dialogue with members of the academic and Asian American communities. It will examine gaps between federal science and technology policy and its implementation — particularly in the context of law enforcement at the U.S. border. It will also explore the possibility of establishing a regular communication channel between the academic and Asian American communities with FBI field offices. 20240606 FBIForum4.jpg 20240606 FBIForum6.jpg 20240606 FBIForum7.jpg 20240606 FBIForum5.jpg 20240606 HoustonForumPosterDraft.jpg 20240606 Forum with FBI Program.jpg Previous Item Next Item

April 7, 2019 On April 7, the Committee of 100 (C100 百人会) issued a statement condemning racial profiling against Chinese Americans . The statement was broadly distributed to the media and read by C100 President Frank Wu during its annual conference in New York. The statement responds to a few high-level American government officials, respected media outlets, and opinion leaders who have stated or suggested in the last few years that all Chinese persons in America should be suspected of wrongdoing. However, "overzealous criminal prosecutions in recent years of innocent individuals such as Sherry Chen and Xiaoxing Xi, like Wen Ho Lee before them, have embarrassingly fallen apart, while ruining lives for no reason. Such targeting of individuals based on their ethnic heritage or national origin violates our shared American ideals. It simply has to stop." "Racial profiling is wrong and un-American in our nation of democracy." The statement concludes that "by standing up and speaking out for what is right and just, Chinese Americans can help lead the way in answering the call that is always before us as Americans: to embody more perfectly the ideals and principles of this great nation we call home." C100 pledges additional plans and actions beyond the released statement. A conference is scheduled for September 28, 2019 in East Palo Alto, California. Previous Next Committee of 100 Condemns Racial Profiling of Chinese Americans