The narrative surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic took a concerning turn when a prominent figure began labeling the virus as the “China Virus.” This labeling led to a troubling rise in hostility and violence directed toward East Asian communities. As fear surrounding the pandemic grew, so did the incidents of hate crimes, which saw a staggering 150% increase in the U.S., particularly in cities like New York and Los Angeles. The words we choose matter, and the rhetoric of a single leader has had far-reaching consequences.
Furthermore, scientists have continued this trend by referencing different strains of the virus based on their geographical origins, creating terms like the “Brazilian strain” or “African variant.” Such language can evoke latent biases in our minds. According to the World Economic Forum, our brains often take shortcuts when processing information, leading to unconscious biases. When we hear these phrases repeatedly, our perception can shift, causing us to unjustly associate entire ethnic groups with the virus and its dangers.
The virus itself, SARS-CoV-2, knows no boundaries and does not discriminate. We should strive to avoid discrimination ourselves. Terms like “Brazilian variant” or “U.K. variant” can reinforce biases, limiting our willingness to engage with diverse communities. Karthick Ramakrishnan, director of AAPI Data, observed that rhetoric from influential figures shapes societal narratives, which can have detrimental effects on marginalized groups.
In February 2020, a student named Liam Chen from Singapore was attacked in London, where assailants shouted that they did not want the virus in their country. His poignant response highlighted the underlying hate that racism fuels. To combat the stigma attached to various labels for the virus, we must refer to it simply as a disease—one that transcends race and ethnicity. You can explore further insights on this topic in another one of our blog posts here.
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In summary, the language we use significantly impacts perceptions and behaviors toward various communities. We must be conscious of our words and strive to eliminate harmful rhetoric that fuels racism and bias. A collective effort can foster understanding and acceptance across all societal levels.