Congressman Krishnamoorthi Press Release

Biden Administration Directed Federal Agencies To Counter Hateful Rhetoric During COVID-19 Pandemic

WASHINGTON - Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08) commended President Biden on his memorandum directing federal agencies including the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to combat xenophobia towards Asian-Americans. The United States has seen a marked rise in harmful rhetoric and hate crimes towards Asian-Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“President Trump weaponized racism and xenophobia in 2020 by calling COVID-19 the ‘Kung Flu Virus’ and we are still witnessing increased hate speech and violence as a result,” said Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi. “President Biden took a crucial step today in making sure our federal agencies combat xenophobia towards the Asian-American community, and I applaud his quick leadership in the first full week of his administration. Congress must also act to ensure that no community is targeted during the duration of this public health crisis or at any other time.”

Congressman Krishnamoorthi intends to explore avenues where legislation and congressional oversight can complement this memorandum.