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Newsletter - #151 10/03 Meeting Summary; AAUP as a Resource; AASF Webinar; Symposium; Asian Americans #151 10/03 Meeting Summary; AAUP as a Resource; AASF Webinar; Symposium; Asian Americans Back View PDF October 24, 2022 Previous Newsletter Next Newsletter

Xiao-jiang Li 李晓江 Docket ID: 1:20-cr-00164 District Court, N.D. Georgia Date filed: May 8, 2020 Date ended: May 8, 2020 Docket ID: 1:19-mj-01007 District Court: N.D. Georgia Date filed: Nov. 21, 2019 Date ended: May 8, 2020 Table of Content Overview 2019/05/16 Emory University Termination 2019/11/21 DOJ Complaint 2020/05/08 Plea Agreement Overview On May 16, 2019, Emory University informed Dr. Li Xiao-Jiang and his wife Dr. Shihua Li that both neuroscientists had been terminated while they were traveling in China. They were accused of failing to disclose research fundings from China and their work for Chinese universities while receiving federal grants from the U.S. government. Dr. Xiao-Jiang Li moved to the U.S. from China to obtain a doctoral degree in the late 1980s and became a naturalized American citizen in 2000. He and his wife, also a U.S. citizen, joined Emory University in 1995 and were co-leader of the Li Laboratory. “They treated us like criminals,” Dr. Li said in an interview in November 2019 near Jinan University in southern China, where he and his wife now work. He disputed the suggestion that they had failed to report ties to China. “Our work is for humanity,” Dr. Li Shihua added. “You can’t say if I worked in China, I’m not loyal to the U.S.” On November 21, 2019, the Department of Justice (DOJ) filed an unannounced complaint against Dr. Xiao-Jiang Li, accusing him of theft of federal grant funds and failing to disclose income from China. Dr. Shihua Li was not named in the complaint. On May 8, 2020, Dr. Li pleaded guilty to underreporting his income on federal tax returns. He agreed to pay $35,089 and any penalties stemming from refiling amended returns from 2012–18. The sentence includes 1 year of probation. DOJ then listed Dr. Li’s case as part of the China Initiative in its online report although it did not involve economic espionage or trade secret theft. 2019/05/16 Emory University Termination On May 16, 2019, Emory University informed Dr. Li Xiao-Jiang Li and his wife Dr. Shihua Li that both neuroscientists had been terminated when they were travelling in China. Both were professors of human genetics and co-led the Li Laboratory at the University. They are naturalized U.S. citizens. Dr. Xiao-Jiang Li obtained his doctor degree from Oregon Health & Science University in 1991. He joined the faculty of Emory University in January 1996, was promoted to full professor in 2005, and had been Distinguished Professor of Human Genetics at Emory University from 2007 to 2019. The simultaneous dismissals were for allegedly failing to disclose their sources of overseas financing and research ties in China. Dr. Li claimed that they did not receive notice or opportunity for them to respond to unverified accusations. The university closed their joint laboratory immediately, which was part of the medical school. Their websites were disconnected. Four postdoctoral students working in the lab, who were Chinese nationals, were told to leave the United States within 30 days. None were given reasons for their terminations. Emory University said its action came after an internal investigation prompted by a letter from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), which had been contacting U.S. universities with concerns about whether specific grantees have adhered to agency rules regarding the disclosure of foreign funding and affiliations. Dr. Xiao-Jiang Li disputed Emory University's claim that the two researchers "had failed to fully disclose foreign sources of research funding and the extent of their work for research institutions and universities in China." According to available records, Dr. Li and his wife published many papers in high-profile journals. They have disclosed funding and affiliations with Chinese institutions, as well as biographical information posted online. References and Links 2019/11/17 Liberation: Emory University professors fired in NIH’s anti-Chinese crackdown 2019/11/04 New York Times: Vast Dragnet Targets Theft of Biomedical Secrets for China 2019/07/19 Washington Post: Scrutiny of Chinese American scientists raises fears of ethnic profiling 2019/06/17 知识分子: 埃默里大学风波又起，另一华人学者或已离开 2019/06/14 South China Morning Post: Professor at Emory University seeks legal support amid US probe into academics’ ties to China 2019/06/13 Deep Tech深科技: 埃默里大学风波再起，华人科学家称“遭到史无前例的对待”丨独家对话旋涡中心于山平 2019/06/12 Science: Emory scientist was told to vacate his office. He says move is reprisal for activism on Asian ties 2019/05/28 Radio Free Asia: US Research University Fires Two Chinese Scientists Over 'Failure to Disclose' Funding 2019/05/28 美国亚裔快讯: 华裔科学家夫妇遭开除,为埃默里大学工作23年的李晓江夫妇违规了吗？ 2019/05/28 South China Morning Post: Chinese college offers to hire two neuroscientists sacked by Emory University 2019/05/27 South China Morning Post: Scientist hits back at US university over ‘unusual and abrupt’ sacking in China funding ties case 2019/05/24 iNature (Chinese translation): Science | 首度发声！李晓江强力驳斥埃默里大学指控 2019/05/24 South China Morning Post: Emory University in US fires scientists over undisclosed funding ties to China 2019/05/24 Science: Terminated Emory researcher disputes university’s allegations about China ties 2019/05/23 Yahoo Finance: Professors fired from Emory University for hiding grants from China 2019/11/21 DOJ Complaint On November 21, 2019, the Department of Justice (DOJ) filed an unannounced criminal complaint against Dr. Xiao-Jiang Li, charging him with one count of theft of federal grant funds and failure to disclose income from China. Dr. Shihua Li was not named in the complaint. The complaint became public through an NBC News report in February 2020. According to the complaint, Emory University provided the FBI with a letter, dated 12/15/2011, addressed to Li from Xue Yongbao of the Institute of Genetics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (“CAS”). The letter notified Dr. Xiao-Jiang Li that his application for a “Thousand Talents Program” position was approved. According to the letter, Dr. Li would be appointed the position of Research Team Leader at the Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology of CAS. The institute agreed that Li would work in China for six months or more before 01/01/2014 as part of a transition period. The purpose of the transition period was so Li would have “sufficient time to build a large animal experimental platform and team and undertake important national issues.” Li was to assume his position full-time (9 months each year) before 01/01/2014. Emory University also provided the FBI with a “High-level Talent (Transition Period) Employment Contract” between the Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology of CAS (Party A) and Li (Party B), executed on 12/20/2011. The term of the contract was two years, from 12/30/2011 to 12/30/2013. On or about February 10, 2015, Dr. Li began pursuing part-time status at Emory University to work at CAS. Dr. Li and the Emory University Department of Human Genetics Chairman entered into a “A letter of understanding.” Dr. Li’s stated purpose was “to spend more time to lead research projects on neurological diseases at the Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology at Chinese Academy of Sciences.” According to Emory University, Dr, Li did not complete the process and started to work at CAS in 2015. In or about October 2018, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) notified Emory University that NIH had become aware that applications submitted to NIH for Li may have failed to comply with NIH policies regarding other support, disclosing foreign financial interests, and/or obtaining prior approval from NIH for the use of foreign components on NIH research grants. In response, Emory University discussed the matter with Dr. Li between October 2018 and May 2019. Additionally, in or about January 2019, Emory University initiated an internal review of Dr. Li’s Emory University email account. Dr. Li’s emails revealed his association with the Chinese government’s “Thousand Talents Program.” On November 22, 2019, Dr. Li was arrested, and an initial appearance was held at which time Dr. Li moved for a preliminary hearing, which was originally set for December 13, 2019, but it was delayed several times. On May 8, 2020, DOJ made a motion to dismiss the original complaint and refiled with a different complaint based on a plea agreement the same day. References and Links 2020/05/08 US v Li 1:19-mj-01007: (Doc 19) Government’s Motion for Leave to File Dismissal 2020/05/06 US v Li 1:20-cr-00164: (Doc 10) Judgment in a Criminal Case 2020/05/06 US v Li 1:20-cr-00164: (Doc 4) Minute Sheet for proceedings held on 05/06/2020 2020/02/04 NBC News: Emory professor hit with criminal charge, linked to Chinese government program 2019/11/21 US v Li 1:19-mj-01007: (Doc 1) Criminal Complaint 2020/05/08 Plea Agreement On May 6, 2024, a telephone conference regarding plea and sentencing was held between Assistant United States Attorney Samir Kaushal and Peter Zeidenberg, attorney representing Dr. Xiao-Jiang Li, in the U.S. District Court in Atlanta. On May 8, 2020, Dr. Xiao-Jiang Li pleaded guilty to underreporting his income on federal tax returns. He agreed to pay $35,089 and any penalties stemming from refiling amended returns from 2012–18. The sentence includes 1 year of probation. Dr. Li's attorney, Peter Zeidenberg, says his client "admits that he should have reported the income on his taxes. And he's embarrassed by it." The judge's actions, Zeidenberg says, will allow Dr. Li "to get back to his research" on Huntington disease, which was halted when the couple's lab was abruptly shut down. But Zeidenberg thinks the case wound up having the opposite effect of what federal authorities claimed was their goal in prosecuting Dr. Li. "He would have preferred to do it in the United States, at Emory," Zeidenberg says. "He's had a successful career here, and this is where his life is. But now he is being forced to work in China. And I think that's incredibly ironic." References and Links 2020/05/20 ASBMB: Ex-Emory neuroscientist pleads guilty; fired Cleveland Clinic geneticist arrested 2020/05/17 Emory Wheel: Former Emory Biomedical Professor Pleads Guilty to Filing False Tax Returns, Sentenced to 1 Year of Probation 2020/05/13 The College Fix: Former Emory U. professor pleads guilty of hiding ties to Chinese government 2020/05/12 Science: Fired Emory University neuroscientist with ties to China sentenced on tax charge 2020/05/11 Department of Justice: Former Emory University professor and Chinese “Thousand Talents” participant convicted and sentenced for filing a false tax return 2020/05/06 US v Li 1:20-cr-00164: (Doc 10) Judgment in a Criminal Case 2020/05/06 US v Li 1:20-cr-00164: (Doc 4) Minute Sheet for proceedings held on 05/06/2020 Previous Item Next Item

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Newsletter - #316 Webinar Today; Dr. Tao Sues; China Initiative; Early-Career Scientists; Firing Ruling+ #316 Webinar Today; Dr. Tao Sues; China Initiative; Early-Career Scientists; Firing Ruling+ In This Issue #316 · Reminder: Webinar on Fair Housing Rights and Alien Land Laws Today · NYT : Professor Franklin Tao Sues to Get His Job Back · 03/12 MSU Webinar: The China Initiative · U.S. Early-Career Scientists Struggle Amid Chaos · Judge Rules Trump’s Firing of Head of Special Counsel was Unlawful · News and Activities for the Communities Reminder: Webinar on Fair Housing Rights and Alien Land Laws Today Today, March 4, 2025, starting at 4:00 pm ET, the Committee of 100 and APA Justice will co-host a webinar on Fair Housing Rights and Alien Land Laws. With new laws limiting property ownership based on nationality, real estate professionals and advocates are stepping up to challenge these discriminatory policies. This webinar will provide critical insights into how these restrictions are reshaping the housing landscape and what we can do to fight back.Register to attend: https://bit.ly/4hEouum NYT : Professor Franklin Tao Sues to Get His Job Back According to the New York Times on March 2, 2025, Feng "Franklin" Tao , a former University of Kansas professor, has filed a lawsuit against the university, alleging wrongful termination and violations of his civil rights. This legal action follows a series of events stemming from the U.S. Department of Justice's now-defunct "China Initiative," which aimed to counter economic espionage but shifted to target individuals of Asian descent.Arrested in 2019 as the first professor charged under the China Initiative, Dr. Tao fought allegations of failing to disclose ties to a Chinese university. After five years, a federal appeals court overturned his lone conviction, yet the University of Kansas has refused to reinstate him.Dr. Tao argues the university engaged in fearmongering and racial profiling, prioritizing political pressure over due process.Despite the official end of the China Initiative in 2022, Congress is now considering legislation to investigate Chinese espionage, with proposals for a "CCP Initiative" that could reignite racial targeting of Chinese researchers. Some lawmakers have also raised concerns about the large number of Chinese students studying science and engineering on American campuses. Senator James Risch ’s assertion that “each [Chinese student] is an agent of the Chinese Communist Party” exemplifies the continued stigmatization of Chinese academics and students. Gisela Perez Kusakawa , executive director of the Asian American Scholar Forum, warns against indiscriminate policies, urging for measured, evidence-based responses rather than racial profiling. “There are real, genuine threats that need to be addressed, but we should not be using a sledgehammer on the issue — we should be using a scalpel,” she said. “We can’t choose the country where we were born, where we came from,” said Dr. Tao’s wife Hong Peng , an American citizen. “What we have experienced, this is completely racial profiling.”Read the New York Times report: https://nyti.ms/3XoR76S . Read Dr. Tao's story: https://bit.ly/4i0WZLw 03/12 MSU Webinar: The China Initiative On March 12, 2025, please join the webinar hosted by Michigan State University's Asian Pacific American Studies Program for an insightful discussion of the past and present of the China Initiative, a Trump administration program that targeted Asian American scholars and researchers for investigation and prosecution. Dr. Lok Siu of UC Berkeley and Dr. Jeremy Wu of APA Justice will speak at the event moderated by Dr. Kent Weber of Michigan State University.Register to attend: https://bit.ly/4hVaITO U.S. Early-Career Scientists Struggle Amid Chaos According to Science on February 21, 2025, early-career researchers in the United States are facing significant challenges due to recent federal funding uncertainties under the Trump administration.The administration’s funding freezes, DEI grant cancellations, and federal scientist firings have created widespread instability.Researchers who had been awarded NIH “diversity” fellowships are left in limbo, while NSF postdoc programs supporting underrepresented groups were suddenly canceled. Some applicants only learned their programs were deleted through automated rejection emails.The USDA and U.S. Geological Survey rescinded job offers and terminated early-career scientists, leaving them with financial hardship and no immediate job prospects. One scientist, who envisioned a 20-year career at USDA, now faces an uncertain future.Some worry that race- and gender-related research—such as a study on maternal mortality disparities—could now be flagged under Trump's executive orders restricting DEI.As funding delays mount, researchers face not only financial uncertainty but also structural barriers. Universities, forced to anticipate prolonged funding cuts, have begun reducing faculty hiring and graduate student admissions.Early-career scientists fear a missing generation of researchers—one that could take years, if not decades, to recover. Institutions are under growing pressure to support affected researchers and prevent long-term damage to the U.S. scientific workforce.Experts warn that sustained instability could weaken the U.S.'s global leadership in science and innovation, pushing talent overseas and reducing America’s research output in critical fields.According to Nature on February 24, 2025, some early-career researchers are considering changing jobs, leaving the country or abandoning research altogether.“Disruption and uncertainty are the enemy of science,” says Donna Ginther , an economist at the University of Kansas in Lawrence. And when disruption and uncertainty strike, she adds, “the people who lose their jobs are students and postdocs.” If that happens now, science in the United States could undergo its own generational shift, she says: “Early-career scientists are the future.”According to Inside Higher Ed on March 3, 2025, federal judges have temporarily blocked many of President Trump’s executive actions, but researchers relying on federal grants are still facing significant disruptions. University scientists working on critical medical research are caught in bureaucratic limbo as Trump’s administration delays funding and enforces strict policies targeting DEI initiatives.“My grant’s future is in limbo,” said neuroscientist Eve Marder , whose NIH funding has been stalled due to the cancellation of advisory council meetings. Without approval, she fears shutting down her lab: “If I don’t get another source of money in the next six months, I’ll have to shut my lab.”NSF and NIH have slowed or halted funding processes. Advisory councils have not met since January, preventing new grants from being approved and stalling $1.5 billion in medical research funding. Astrophysics postdoc Adrian Fraser shared his frustration over the uncertainty: “Things aren’t clearly defined from the top, so it becomes a messy game of telephone … No one knows what is considered DEI-related.”Meanwhile, universities are preparing for prolonged funding cuts. Jeremy Berg , former NIH director, suggests the administration may be stalling funding as a hidden budget-cutting tactic: “Effectively a way of cutting the NIH budget without cutting the NIH budget.” If unspent by September 30, allocated funds must be returned to the U.S. Treasury, raising concerns about whether the administration is intentionally withholding money despite congressional approval.If funding restrictions persist, many early-career scientists may be forced to abandon research or leave the U.S., posing a serious threat to the nation’s scientific progress, global competitiveness, and long-term innovation. Judge Rules Trump’s Firing of Head of Special Counsel was Unlawful As of March 3, 2025, the number of lawsuits against President Donald Trump 's executive actions reported by the Just Security Litigation Tracker has grown to 96.According to AP News , Fox , and multiple media reports, one key case, Dellinger v. Bessent (1:25-cv-00385) , resulted in U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson ruling that Trump’s attempt to remove Hampton Dellinger as head of the Office of Special Counsel (OSC) was unlawful.Dellinger, fired on February 5 despite legal protections limiting presidential removal to cases of inefficiency, neglect, or malfeasance, sued for reinstatement. Judge Jackson’s ruling temporarily restored him to his position, warning that unchecked presidential removal of the Special Counsel would undermine protections for federal employees, including whistleblowers.“The Special Counsel is supposed to withstand the winds of political change and help ensure that no government servant of either party becomes the subject of prohibited employment practices or faces reprisals for calling out wrongdoing,” Judge Jackson wrote in her decision.The Trump administration quickly appealed to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit. The Supreme Court previously allowed Dellinger to remain in his role pending litigation.Beyond his own case, Dellinger has challenged the administration’s mass termination of probationary federal workers, arguing some firings may have been illegal. In addition, the OSC enforces the Hatch Act, which limits partisan political activities by government employees—an issue drawing scrutiny as Trump administration officials continue publicly endorsing his policies. The ruling comes as Dellinger is challenging the removal of probationary workers who were fired as part of the Trump administration’s massive overhaul of the government. A federal board has halted the terminations of several probationary workers after Dellinger said their firings may have been unlawful.The ruling is a major legal setback for Trump’s efforts to reshape the federal workforce. It underscores the ongoing battle over protections for whistleblowers and civil servants.The case will likely have broader implications as Trump seeks to expand executive power. News and Activities for the Communities 1. APA Justice Community Calendar Upcoming Events: 2025/03/04 Fair Housing Rights & Alien Land Laws: Challenges and Advocacy for the Asian American Community2025/03/05 The Global Economy at a Crossroads: U.S.-China in Focus2025/03/12 MSU Webinar on China Initiative2025/03/16 Rep. Gene Wu's Town Hall Meeting2025/03/30 Rep. Gene Wu's Town Hall Meeting 2025/04/07 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 Meeting Visit https://bit.ly/3XD61qV for event details. 2. 11-year-old Student Took His Own Life After Repeated Bullying According to Cleveland.com on February 28, 2025 , the parents of an 11-year-old boy in Akron filed a federal lawsuit, Gurung v. Akron Public Schools District Board of Education (5:25-cv-00374) in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio.The 41-page complaint alleges that Abyesh Thulung , born in a Bhutanese refugee camp in Nepal and U.S. citizen, died by suicide after enduring relentless racial bullying at Akron’s National Inventors Hall of Fame (NIHF) Middle School. He was reportedly harassed online and at school, including being called racial slurs like “Ching Chong” and physically assaulted multiple times. Throughout the year, he visited the school nurse 11 times—four for injuries from attacks, the rest for stress-induced headaches and stomach pain.Despite clear signs of distress, the lawsuit claims school officials failed to intervene and, instead, punished Abyesh when he tried to defend himself. In addition, the Akron Public School District allegedly destroyed surveillance footage of a key incident leading up to his death and withheld parts of his educational records from his family.The lawsuit argues that the school’s negligence, failure to enforce anti-bullying policies, and disregard for Abyesh’s safety directly contributed to his tragic death. 3. The Global Economy at a Crossroads: U.S.-China in Focus WHAT: The Global Economy at a Crossroads: U.S.-China in Focus WHEN: March 5, 2025, 7:00 pm ET/4:00 pm PT WHERE: Webinar HOST: 1990 Institute and sponsors Moderator: Clay Dube , Director Emeritus and Senior Fellow, USC U.S.-China Institute Speakers: · Yuen Yuen Ang , Alfred Chandler Chair Professor of Political Economy at Johns Hopkins University · Andy Rothman , Founder and CEO of Sinology LLC DESCRIPTION: The U.S. and China represent the two largest economies in the world, with deeply interconnected yet often competing interests. Their economic relationship involves trade, investment, and technology exchanges, shaped by regulatory, cultural, and geopolitical factors. This workshop will explore the economic interdependencies between these two powers and provide a discussion into the impact of these unique yet interwoven economic landscapes. REGISTRATION: https://bit.ly/3QIqdms # # # 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 4, 2025 Previous Newsletter Next Newsletter

Newsletter - #25 10/5 Meeting Summary; Know Your Rights; America's Lost Talents By Racial Profiling #25 10/5 Meeting Summary; Know Your Rights; America's Lost Talents By Racial Profiling Back View PDF October 28, 2020 Previous Newsletter Next Newsletter

Newsletter - #192: BREAKING NEWS: DOJ Files Brief in Florida Lawsuit; 07/03 Meeting; Who Can Be American #192: BREAKING NEWS: DOJ Files Brief in Florida Lawsuit; 07/03 Meeting; Who Can Be American In This Issue #192 BREAKING NEWS: DOJ Files Amicus Brief in Florida Alien Land Lawsuit 2023/07/03 APA Justice Monthly Meeting How Frederick Douglass and Wong Kim Ark Helped Define Who Can Be American BREAKING NEWS: DOJ Files Amicus Brief in Florida Alien Land Lawsuit On June 27, 2023, attorneys for the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) filed a statement of interest in support of the motion for preliminary injunction: https://bit.ly/3PsKSvw The 22-page statement, also called an amicus curiae *“friend-of-the-court”) brief, begins with this introduction:"The State of Florida recently enacted a statute that imposes new prohibitions on owning or purchasing land in the State. Among other provisions, Senate Bill 264 (“SB 264”) prohibits individuals who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents and whose “domicile” is in China, or other so-called “foreign countries of concern,” from owning or purchasing real property. The United States respectfully submits this Statement of Interest under 28 U.S.C. § 5171 to advise the Court of the United States’ view that the provisions of SB 264 to be codified at Florida Statutes §§ 692.201–.2052 violate the Fair Housing Act (“FHA”) and the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment of the United States Constitution. These unlawful provisions will cause serious harm to people simply because of their national origin, contravene federal civil rights laws, undermine constitutional rights, and will not advance the State’s purported goal of increasing public safety. Plaintiffs are likely to succeed on the merits of these claims challenging the provisions of SB 264 that restrict and prohibit land ownership. Accordingly, the United States supports Plaintiffs’ motion to enjoin Defendants from implementing and enforcing these provisions."The brief proceeds to explain these two arguments: Plaintiffs are likely to succeed on the merits of their Fair Housing Act Claims Plaintiffs are likely to succeed on the merits of their Equal Protection Claim The brief concludes:"For the foregoing reasons, the provisions of SB 264 that restrict and prohibit land ownership violate the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment, and Plaintiffs are likely to succeed on the merits of those claims."Read the DOJ amicus curiae brief: https://bit.ly/3PsKSvw 2023/07/03 APA Justice Monthly Meeting The next APA Justice monthly meeting will be held via Zoom on Monday, July 3, 2023, starting at 1:55 pm ET.In addition to updates by Nisha Ramachandran , Executive Director, Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC); John Yang 杨重远 , President and Executive Director, Advancing Justice | AAJC; and Gisela Kusakawa , Executive Director, Asian American Scholar Forum (AASF), speakers will include: Al Green , Member of U.S. House of Representatives; Member, Executive Board and Chair of Housing Task Force, CAPAC, on alien land bills and multicultural advocacy coalition Clay Zhu 朱可亮 , Partner, DeHeng Law Offices 德恒律师事务所; Founder, Chinese American Legal Defense Alliance 华美维权同盟, on the recent developments of the Florida lawsuit Scott Chang , Senior Counsel, National Fair Housing Alliance, on NFHA and its work on alien land bills Edgar Chen , Special Policy Advisor, National Asian Pacific American Bar Association, on NAPABA's work on alien land bills and related activities Cindy Tsai , Interim President and Executive Director, Committee of 100, on the recent roles and activities of C100 The virtual monthly meeting is by invitation only. 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 . How Frederick Douglass and Wong Kim Ark Helped Define Who Can Be American During a recent roundtable with state organizers and activists on alien land laws and related issues, Helen Zia 谢汉兰 shared a picture of Wong Kim Ark 黃金德 and Frederick Douglas - it is a story of Asian Americans and solidarity that is missing in American history.According to a KCET report on May 19, 2022, Frederick Douglass escaped slavery and was a powerful voice for racial justice. In his view, the struggle for equality of the Black man also meant a fight for equality for all people. "… I want the Asiatic to find a home here in the United States, and feel at home here, both for his sake and ours. Right wrongs no man," he said in Boston in December 1869. Wong Kim Ark, who was born in the United States and barred from re-entry in 1895, took his case to the US Supreme Court and won, paving the way for birthright citizenship for all."I am especially to speak to you of the character and mission of the United States, with special reference to the question whether we are the better or the worse for being composed of different races of men. I propose to consider first, what we are, second, what we are likely to be, and, thirdly, what we ought to be," Douglas said in his speech. "There are such things in the world as human rights. They rest upon no conventional foundation, but are external, universal, and indestructible. Among these, is the right of locomotion; the right of migration; the right which belongs to no particular race, but belongs alike to all and to all alike. It is the right you assert by staying here, and your fathers asserted by coming here. It is this great right that I assert for the Chinese and Japanese, and for all other varieties of men equally with yourselves, now and forever. I know of no rights of race superior to the rights of humanity, and when there is a supposed conflict between human and national rights."According to Wikipedia , Wong Kim Ark was born in San Francisco, California, at 751 Sacramento Street. In November 1894, Wong sailed to China for a temporary visit, to rejoin his wife at his family's village in Taishan, Guangdong. But when he returned in August 1895, he was detained at the Port of San Francisco by the Collector of Customs, who denied him permission to enter the country, arguing that Wong was not a U.S. citizen despite his having been born in the U.S., but was instead a Chinese subject because his parents were Chinese. Wong was confined for five months on steamships off the coast of San Francisco while his case was being tried. In a 6–2 decision issued on March 28, 1898, the Supreme Court held that Wong Kim Ark had acquired U.S. citizenship at birth and that "the American citizenship which Wong Kim Ark acquired by birth within the United States has not been lost or taken away by anything happening since his birth." Back View PDF June 28, 2023 Previous Newsletter Next Newsletter

Newsletter - #396 Maryland Reps at 6/1 Meeting; 6/3 Joint Webinar; APAICS Update; Innes Lab; McCarthyism #396 Maryland Reps at 6/1 Meeting; 6/3 Joint Webinar; APAICS Update; Innes Lab; McCarthyism In This Issue #396 · Maryland House Speaker and Delegates to Speak at APA Justice Monthly Meeting on June 1 · June 3 Joint Webinar: Geopolitics, Identity, and the Fight for Civil Rights · Madalene Mielke: Report on APAICS · IU Professor Roger Innes Lab Reopens · True Story of Immigration, McCarthyism and Founding of JPL · News and Activities for the Communities Maryland House Speaker and Delegates to Speak at APA Justice Monthly Meeting on June 1 A racist video titled "ChiCom of the Year Award," featuring Maryland Delegates Mark Fisher and Brian Chisholm , was published in early May 2026. It drew widespread condemnation from lawmakers across party lines. The video targeted Delegate Chao Wu , a Chinese American representative from Montgomery and Howard counties. In the footage, the two delegates mocked Wu's accent, accused him of being a spy for the Chinese government, and disparaged a piece of artificial intelligence legislation he had previously introduced. The remarks were strongly denounced by public officials, House Speaker Joseline A. Peña-Melnyk , and the Maryland Legislative AAPI Caucus, who labeled the attacks xenophobic, racist, and reminiscent of witch-hunts against Asian Americans. Watch the WBAL-TV report: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kd7ZXlGo7wA (2:45). Speaker Joseline A. Peña-Melnyk and Delegate Chao Wu have accepted our invitation to speak at the APA Justice monthly meeting on June 1, 2026. Maryland Delegate Lily Qi , Chair of the Maryland Legislative Asian American & Pacific Islander Caucus, will also give brief remarks. In addition to the regular speakers: · Judith Teruya , 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) We also welcome these distinguished invited speakers: · Cindy Tsai , Executive Vice President & General Counsel; Committee of 100 · Clay Zhu 朱可亮 , Co-Founder, Chinese American Legal Defense Alliance 华美维权同盟(CALDA) · Haipei Shue 薛海培 , President, United Chinese Americans The monthly meetings are by invitation only and 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 - Vincent Wang 王文奎 and Jeremy Wu 胡善庆 - or send a message to contact@apajustice.org . June 3 Webinar: Geopolitics, Identity, and the Fight for Civil Rights As geopolitical ties between the United States and China remain unsteady, the impact extends beyond diplomacy and into the lived experiences of people at home. For diaspora communities, shifts in foreign policy can shape everything from public perception to legal protections, raising complex questions about identity, belonging, and rights. The third webinar in this series, co-hosted by the Committee of 100, US-China Education Trust, and APA Justice, examines the downstream effects of U.S. foreign policy through both a historical and contemporary lens. Drawing parallels across time, the conversation will explore how periods of international strain have influenced domestic policies and legal interpretations—from immigration restrictions to citizenship rights—and how these dynamics continue to evolve today. The session will explore how narratives of rivalry and suspicion can translate into real-world consequences for communities with heritage ties to countries at the center of geopolitical tension. We will discuss the tradeoffs policymakers face and provide a nuanced understanding of how national priorities intersect with civil liberties. Participants are encouraged to bring questions and perspectives as we explore what it means to navigate global tensions at a local, human level. The views expressed by the panelists are their own and do not represent the views of their employer or any organization with which they are affiliated. By registering for this event, you will be added to Committee of 100, APA Justice, and the US-China Education Trust's mailing lists and have access to our future public programming. If you wish to unsubscribe, you can do so at any time via the email opt-out. WHAT : Geopolitics, Identity, and the Fight for Civil Rights WHEN : June 3, 2026, 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. ET WHERE : Webinar HOSTS : Committee of 100, US-China Education Trust, APA Justice Moderator : Joanna Derman , Director, Asian American Advancing Justice | AAJC Speakers: · Edgar Chen , Senior Policy Advisor, National Asian Pacific American Bar Association · Frank Wu , President, Queens College REGISTRATION : https://bit.ly/3PxYwQt Madalene Mielke: Report on APAICS During the APA Justice monthly meeting on May 4, 2026, Madalene Mielke , President and CEO of the Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies (APAICS), provided an overview of the organization and its upcoming events. About APAICS . APAICS is the nonprofit foundation arm of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), which is part of the Tri-Caucus alongside the Congressional Black Caucus and Congressional Hispanic Caucus. The organization was co-founded in 1994 by former Secretary Norman Mineta and Delegate Robert Underwood , with a mission to increase AANHPI participation and representation at all levels of public service. Programs and Pipeline Development . APAICS runs several programs designed to build a sustained public service pipeline, including paid Congressional internships and fellowships. Notably, APAICS is the only Asian American-centered organization that also provides housing for congressional interns, ensuring access regardless of socioeconomic background. Additional programs include a Youth Leadership Academy targeting high school students and a Women's Collective to encourage more AANHPI women to enter public service. APAICS also works directly with state legislative AAPI caucuses, recognizing that many future congressional members first come through state legislatures. Tracking Candidate Growth . APAICS maintains a catalog of all AANHPI candidates and elected officials. Madalene reported steady growth in the number of candidates filing for office each year since she joined the organization in 2018, including meaningful growth in the 2025 off-year elections compared to the last comparable cycle in 2023. She expressed optimism about the number of AANHPI candidates running in 2026. Policy Summits and Community Partners. APAICS holds industry-focused policy summits throughout the year in coordination with CAPAC legislative priorities. Earlier in 2026 the focus was health; upcoming summits will cover energy and commerce, and technology. APAICS collaborates with a wide range of community partners including APIA Health Forum, APIA Votes, AREAA, and API Scholars. Upcoming Events. The following week, APAICS was set to launch its AANHPI Heritage Month programming, including its Legislative Leadership Summit, its 32nd Annual Awards Gala — widely known as "Asian Prom" — and a Military Leadership Appreciation Event. Visit https://www.apaics.org/ for more information. Watch a video of Madalene’s talk at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jJV62YoNcK8 (5:39). ***** Two Asian American candidates are drawing attention in upcoming congressional primaries in California and Michigan: Connie Chan and Eric Chung . In California’s 11th Congressional District, Connie Chan is running to succeed retiring House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi . Born in Hong Kong and raised in San Francisco after immigrating at age 13, Chan currently serves on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors and has built a profile around labor rights, affordable housing, anti-Asian hate initiatives, and immigrant communities. The California primary will be held on June 2 under the state’s “top-two” primary system, in which the two highest vote-getters advance to the general election regardless of party affiliation. Chan recently received a major endorsement from Pelosi, along with support from organized labor groups including the San Francisco Labor Council, National Nurses United, and California teachers unions. In Michigan’s 10th Congressional District, Eric Chung is running as a Democrat in the August 4 primary. Chung, a constitutional lawyer and son of Vietnamese immigrants and an autoworker family, has emphasized civil rights, economic opportunity, and democratic institutions in his campaign. Michigan uses a traditional partisan primary system in which party nominees advance to the general election. Chung has secured endorsements from the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund as well as members of Congress including Andy Kim , Judy Chu , and Grace Meng . ***** WHAT : AAPI Representation on Capitol Hill: Navigating Careers and Sharing Advice WHEN : May 27, 2026, 6:00-7:30 pm ET WHERE : In Person: 232 East Capitol Street NE, Washington DC HOSTS : US-China Education Trust; U.S. Asia Institute DESCRIPTION: The panel will offer first-hand insight into how policy is made and what AAPI representation looks like in the legislative branch. The discussion will also examine the challenges and opportunities that have shaped panelists' careers, along with practical advice for anyone looking to forge their own path in legislative politics and policymaking. REGISTRATION : https://bit.ly/3Pg4bdP IU Professor Roger Innes Lab Reopens According to Indiana Public Media on May 19, 2026, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) concluded its investigation into the lab of Indiana University (IU) biology professor Roger Innes and found no serious violations. Aside from an expired import permit, a missing curation permit, and some unapproved houseplants, the department found nothing during its search violating federal guidelines. The lab was allowed to reopen, with Professor Innes noting there were no fines or penalties. The lab was missing a permit needed to keep a plant pathogen for several years after importing it, though it remains permitted to work with that species. The USDA destroyed those petri dishes, along with some organisms that could not be identified. The houseplants decorating the lab's windowsills were also destroyed — something Innes joked would upset his team. The investigation drew considerable attention because of Innes's defense of Chinese researchers alleged of illegally importing research material. His own employee, Youhuang Xiang , was deported after mislabeling a shipment of DNA plasmids, and the lab had come under FBI scrutiny. Some colleagues and media outlets speculated the USDA search was a form of retribution. Professor Innes noted that the USDA told him it was acting at the request of others in the government, though they were not free to discuss the details. He said the agency's typical concerns involve nurseries and markets, not research labs, and that inspecting his lab was unusual for them. The two-week lab shutdown set research projects back by several months. The barrier IU had erected between the Innes lab and adjacent spaces was removed in the afternoon of Tuesday, May 19, 2026. Read the Indiana Public Media report: https://bit.ly/3PHDS0i True Story of Immigration, McCarthyism and Founding of JPL According to Spectrum News on May 20, 2026, the world premiere of Ascent, a play at Skylight Theatre in Los Angeles, tells the true story of Qian Xuesen 钱学森 , a Chinese immigrant who co-founded Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) and helped develop America's missile program. During the McCarthy era, he was accused without evidence of being a communist, held under house arrest for five years, and ultimately deported. He went on to play a major role in building China's nuclear and aerospace capabilities and is considered a national hero there. The play was written by the late Henry Ong , a first-generation Asian American playwright who began the project in 2016 and had been developing it with director Diana Wyenn before his death in 2018. A proud immigrant, Ong devoted his career to telling authentic stories from immigrant communities, and that authenticity is reflected here with the typical pre-show announcement being made in four languages, including Ong's first language, Malay — the official language in Malaysia. Both the creative team and lead actor Trieu Tran emphasize how timely the story feels today, drawing parallels between the Red Scare-era treatment of immigrants and current political climate. Tran, who plays Qian, admits he had never heard of the scientist before he was cast in early workshops of the play. The reason can be traced back to the McCarthy Era and the Red Scare, when Qian was accused — without evidence — of being a communist. “Too much of an asset to let go and too much of a threat to stay,” Tran explained. “So they kept them for five long years in misery under house arrest, constant surveillance.” The production runs through June 14, 2026. Read the Spectrum News Report: https://bit.ly/4tOjrN7 News and Activities for the Communities 1. APA Justice Community Calendar Upcoming Events: 2026/05/27 AAPI Representation on Capitol Hill: Navigating Careers and Sharing Advice 2026/06/01 APA Justice Monthly Meeting 2026/06/02 Third Annual “State of The Science” Address 2026/06/03 Webinar: Geopolitics, Identity, and the Fight for Civil Rights 2026/06/10 Recollections, Pioneers and Heroes - Calvin Tsao 2026/06/27-28 From Crisis to Coalition: Lessons from the Front Lines in Minneapolis/St. PaulVisit https://bit.ly/3XD61qV for event details. 2. Third Annual “State of The Science” Address WHAT : 2026 “State of The Science” Address WHEN : June 2, 2026, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. ET – Reception to Follow WHERE : · In Person: 2101 Constitution Ave NW, Washington D.C. 20418 · Online: Upon completion of registration HOST : National Academy of Sciences Speakers: Marcia McNutt, President, National Academy of Sciences and Expert Panel DESCRIPTION: The third annual State of the Science address will explore the status of the U.S. research enterprise, global science leadership, and economic competitiveness. The address, to be delivered by National Academy of Sciences President Marcia McNutt, will be followed by a panel including leaders in science and research, technology and innovation, policymaking, government, industry, and philanthropy. REGISTRATION : https://bit.ly/4tRVHHQ # # # 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 May 26, 2026 Previous Newsletter Next Newsletter

Newsletter - #10 Dr. Wei Su And Profiling Concerns; Professor Tao Motions To Dismiss; Vaccine Update #10 Dr. Wei Su And Profiling Concerns; Professor Tao Motions To Dismiss; Vaccine Update Back View PDF August 17, 2020 Previous Newsletter Next Newsletter

AAJC and ALC have filed an amicus brief in United States v. Feng "Franklin" Tao, providing significant evidence of racial profiling against Asian American and immigrant scientists and researchers. August 20, 2020 AAJC Press Release On August 20, 2020, Advancing Justice – AAJC and Advancing Justice – ALC filed an amicus brief in United States v. Feng "Franklin" Tao (陶丰教授), providing significant evidence of racial profiling against Asian American and immigrant scientists and researchers. The two Asian American civil rights organizations submitted the brief in support of Dr. Feng “Franklin” Tao to show opposition to the government’s increased efforts to profile and target Chinese American scientists and researchers based on ethnicity under the pretext of ferreting out economic espionage. In United States v. Tao, Dr. Tao, a tenured engineering professor at the University of Kansas, is fighting criminal allegations for not disclosing to the University an alleged affiliation with a university in China. “Failure to disclose information on a university form is not economic espionage,” said John C. Yang, president and executive director of Advancing Justice – AAJC. “Xenophobia from leadership and agents within the U.S. government has translated to real consequences for the Chinese and Asian American community. Chinese scientists and researchers, like Dr. Tao, are caught in the Department of Justice’s broad net for prosecutions and sudden criminalization of minor infractions and we are deeply concerned with the pattern of misguided suspicion and racial discrimination we are seeing in these cases.” The government has been mounting a broad campaign scrutinizing and targeting Chinese American scientists and researchers through the China Initiative. Fueled by xenophobia, the China Initiative was adopted by the Department of Justice in 2018 for the purported purpose of combating economic espionage. The China Initiative is part of the latest wave of xenophobia against Chinese and Asian Americans and follows a long history of Asian Americans and immigrants being criminalized, stereotyped as “perpetual foreigners,” scapegoated, and profiled as spies disloyal to the United States. “The government needs to prosecute people who steal national security and trade secrets, but targeting people of Chinese descent for investigation without evidence of wrongdoing is not how to do that,” noted Glenn Katon, litigation director at Advancing Justice - Asian Law Caucus and former Department of Justice trial attorney. “Bringing dubious charges against people like Dr. Tao, for conduct the government would not have known or cared about but for the China Initiative, is discriminatory and a waste of resources.” We have seen a surge in prosecutions as the government increases pressure on academic institutions to criminalize previously administrative issues and federal agencies to increase prosecution efforts across the country. Data and individual cases of wrongful arrests and prosecutions along with biased rhetoric from public officials reveal that racial bias exists in the charging, prosecution, and sentencing of Chinese, Asian Americans, and immigrants. The amicus brief addresses the government’s broad campaign to scrutinize and target Chinese American scientists and researchers and discusses how the government’s xenophobic and overzealous prosecutions does real harm to the individual lives of Chinese and Asian Americans and immigrant communities. Read the brief here . AAJC and ALC have filed an amicus brief in United States v. Feng "Franklin" Tao, providing significant evidence of racial profiling against Asian American and immigrant scientists and researchers. Previous Next Two Asian American Civil Rights Organizations Submit Amicus Brief in United States v. Tao

Newsletter - #57 Heritage Month Activities; Goverment's Own Bias; Yellow Whistle Campaign Grows #57 Heritage Month Activities; Goverment's Own Bias; Yellow Whistle Campaign Grows Back View PDF April 30, 2021 Previous Newsletter Next Newsletter

Newsletter - #67 Press Briefing Today On Anming Hu Mistrial; Letter To The White House #67 Press Briefing Today On Anming Hu Mistrial; Letter To The White House Back View PDF June 18, 2021 Previous Newsletter Next Newsletter

Newsletter - #203 Reminder: Sign-on Letter! March on Washington; State Restrictions; Listening Session #203 Reminder: Sign-on Letter! March on Washington; State Restrictions; Listening Session In This Issue #203 Reminder: Invitation to Sign Letter to President Biden Urging Renewal of US-China Protocol on Scientific and Technological Cooperation See You at the "March on Washington" on August 26 NYT: Spreading State Restrictions on China Show Depths of Distrust in the U.S. AASF Community Listening Session with the Department of Defense Reminder: Invitation to Sign Letter to President Biden Urging Renewal of US-China Protocol on Scientific and Technological Cooperation Stanford University Professors Steven Kivelson and Peter F. Michelson issued the following letter calling for faculty members and scholars at U.S. institutions of higher learning to co-sign a letter to President Joe Biden to renew the US-China Protocol on Scientific and Technological Cooperation. Read the letter here: https://bit.ly/3KP6wXG Sign on to the letter here: https://bit.ly/3qGWC3r WHEN: Before Noon PDT on Thursday, August 24 APA Justice has created this web page to track the continuing development: https://bit.ly/3E9NmI8 Media reports: 2023/08/23 Reuters : US seeks extension to controversial science agreement with China 2023/08/23 Voice of America : US Seeks to Extend Science, Tech Agreement With China for 6 Months 2023/08/23 NBC News : Biden resists pressure from lawmakers and seeks short extension to key China science pact 2023/08/22 The Guardian : Warnings of scientific ‘suicide’ as US-China research collaboration hangs in balance See You at the "March on Washington" on August 26 United Chinese Americans (UCA) has issued a statement to urge the Chinese American and AANHPI communities to join the "March on Washington" in Washington DC on Saturday, August 26, 2023. The statement reads:"Sixty years ago, Dr. King delivered his immortal speech 'I have a dream' at Lincoln Memorial in Washington DC."Sixty years later, Chinese Americans are joining Americans of all ethnicities and background to march again for justice and equality. We march now not just to commemorate but to realize the dream!"The Civil Rights Movement of the sixties has seared in the memory of Americans, but the mission is far from being completed. With racial profiling China Initiative, Chinese exclusion land bills in many states, and growing mistrust toward our community, now is the time for Chinese Americans to call for the civil rights movement of our generation."As a proud partner of this historic march to continue the dream, UCA cordially invites you to join this historical event. Let’s march to renew our pledge to build a truly inclusive and pluralistic democracy! Let’s march to relive the spirit of 60’s and for our shared dream! Will you join us this Saturday in Washington DC?"Register for the event: https://tinyurl.com/March-on-Washington-August-26 ." Thanks to the support of the Committee of 100 and The Yellow Whistle ™, APA Justice will help to distribute yellow whistles on site. Use the whistle to amplify the voices of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities. Participants are urged to wear yellow color clothing. YELLOW is beautiful. Let us take the YELLOW back. We shall not remain silent, because WE BELONG™. Participants who wish to help distribute the yellow whistles should send a request to contact@apajustice.org . ENTRANCE March participants will enter on 17th St. between Independence and Constitution, Ave. ONLY. See the March Route map above. WEATHER & HYDRATION We anticipate the August summer heat during this event. We ask that you access participation based on your health history. Please bring water, hydrate, and summer cooling items for your safety; some will also be available on-site. We ask that you RECYCLE all water bottles using the recycling bins around the mall. MARCH ROUTE Marchers will begin lining up on Lincoln Circle NW and proceed South on 23rd St. crossing through the median onto the Southern portion of Independence Ave (see map above). They will march to West Potomac Park, serving as the dispersal point. Marchers will be routed to DC Metro locations, including Farragut West and North, Federal Triangle, and Smithsonian. Anyone not marching must exit the memorial and head to their transportation.Current Weather Forecast: According to local radio WTOP , organizers expect tens of thousands of visitors to take part in this year’s march at the Lincoln Memorial. The event is led by the Rev. Al Sharpton , Martin Luther King III and his wife, Andrea Waters King. According to an invitation by the Asian American Scholar Forum (AASF), Dr. King's iconic "I Have a Dream" speech resonated with all those seeking justice beyond racial divides. This historic event's relevance extends to the scholar community, which also faces difficult challenges ahead. Recognizing the participation of scholars in the march highlights the interconnected struggles against inequality. It underscores the importance of collaboration among diverse groups in the fight for justice and equality, reminding us that our collective efforts transcend boundaries. 2023/08/23 AP News : At March on Washington’s 60th anniversary, leaders seek energy of original movement for civil rights 2023/08/23 NBC News : The March on Washington's core ideas resonate 60 years later 2023/08/23 USA Today : ‘Tell ’em about the dream, Martin!’: Memories from the crowd at MLK’s March on Washington National Archives: Official Program for the March on Washington (1963) Library of Congress: The March on Washington NYT: Spreading State Restrictions on China Show Depths of Distrust in the U.S. According to the New York Times on August 21, 2023, at a moment when Washington is trying to reset its tense relationship with China, states across the country are leaning into anti-Chinese sentiment and crafting or enacting sweeping rules aimed at severing economic ties with Beijing.The measures, in places like Florida, Utah and South Carolina, are part of a growing political push to make the United States less economically dependent on China and to limit Chinese investment over concerns that it poses a national security risk. Those concerns are shared by the Biden administration, which has been trying to reduce America’s reliance on China by increasing domestic manufacturing and strengthening trade ties with allies.But the state efforts have the potential to be far more expansive than what the administration is orchestrating. They have drawn backlash from business groups over concerns that state governments are veering toward protectionism and retreating from a longstanding tradition of welcoming foreign investment into the United States.The restrictions coincide with a resurgence of anti-China sentiment. While Washington may see a relationship with China as a necessary evil, officials at the state and local levels appear determined to try to sever their economic relationship with America’s third-largest trading partner.One of the biggest targets has been Chinese landownership, despite the fact that China owns less than 400,000 acres in the United States, according to the Agriculture Department. That is less than 1 percent of all foreign-owned land.One of the most provocative restrictions has been championed by Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida, a Republican who is running for president. In May, Mr. DeSantis signed a law prohibiting Chinese companies or citizens from purchasing or investing in properties.But the legislation is written so broadly that an investment fund or a company that has even a small ownership stake from a Chinese company or a Chinese investor and buys a property would be violating the law. Business groups and the Biden administration have criticized the law as overreach, while Republican attorneys general around the country have sided with Mr. DeSantis. The Florida legislation, which targets “countries of concern” and imposes special restrictions on China, is being challenged in federal court. A group of Chinese citizens and a real estate brokerage firm in Florida that are represented by the American Civil Liberties Union sued the state in May, arguing that the law codifies and expands housing discrimination. The Justice Department filed a “statement of interest” arguing that Florida’s landownership policy is unlawful.Read the New York Times report in both English and Chinese 切断与中国经济联系？美国多州“反中”情绪渐涨: https://nyti.ms/3sibK7M Watch also NBC News report " Backlash grows over Chinese companies purchasing land in U.S. " (video 3:12) AASF Community Listening Session with the Department of Defense The Asian American Scholar Forum (AASF) will host a scholar community listening session with the Department of Defense (DoD) on August 30, 2023, starting at 7:00 pm ET. The session provides a platform where scholars can ask questions and engage in dialogue. The guest speaker is Bindu Nair , Department of Defense Director of Basic Research. This is a unique opportunity to offer feedback and learn more about new and developing policies at the DoD. The listening session will cover " Policy for Risk-Based Security Reviews of Fundamental Research " issued by the DoD on June 8, 2023. The event is closed to the media and will not be recorded.Read the AASF announcement: https://bit.ly/44o4apu . Register for the event: https://bit.ly/3E6Rs43 Back View PDF August 23, 2023 Previous Newsletter Next Newsletter