The Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum is alarmed by the increased number of attacks directed at Asian-Americans in response to the current Covid-19 outbreak.

This strain of virus originated in China. As with all viruses, it recognizes no nationalities. It could just as easily have originated in any other spot in the world. In a world economy that is based on global trade, its spread, regardless of where it first emerged, was inevitable.

To blame Asian-Americans, or any other group for its transmission is absurd. Yet, some Asian-Americans have been targets of verbal and physical abuse, afraid to go outside for groceries, toiletries, or travel alone. This must not be our response as Americans. We are better than this.
As COVID-19 spreads uncertainty and fear throughout the world, we must not fall prey to acts of bigotry. We must continue to comport ourselves with dignity and respect, and not give in to xenophobia.

The mission of the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum is to teach the history of the Holocaust and advance human rights to combat prejudice, hatred, and indifference. To learn more visit dhhrm.org.

– Mary Pat Higgins, Museum President and CEO
– Frank Risch, Board Chair