End violence against Asian-Americans: Fashion designers and luxury brands speak up against the wide-spreading hate

Ruhi Gilder
The fashion industry is taking a stand against racism amidst a series of violent incidents against the Asian American community in the US. According to data by Stop AAPI Hate released on February 9, 2808 first-hand incidents of anti-Asian hate were reported across 47 states and DC, between mid-March through the end of 2020. These included physical assaults, verbal harassment, were collected  (amid the pandemic). An 84-year-old man died in January after being attacked on his morning walk in San Francisco and just days later a 91-year-old woman was pushed to the ground in Oakland’s Chinatown, according to CNN.  
Luxury brands are releasing a spate of emotional messages and personal statements from designers of Asian descent and mainstream fashion houses to end this hatred against Asians. 
 Prabal Gurung 

 

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The designer was born in Singapore, and travelled from Nepal to India, London, Australia, and finally came to America in pursuit of the American Dream. In a deeply personal memory, Gurung recalls, “I remember sitting in a business meeting and discussing my desire to redefine the Americana aesthetic. I was met with a pointed “well, you don’t look American so how can you define what America is?” It was clear what they meant. I wasn’t white. This is an example of micro-racism.” His 2019 spring fashion show also highlighted what it means to be American, with models strutting down the runway in sashes printed with the words “Who gets to be American?”

Nike  

 

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“Our hearts are with our Asian community. We stand united with our partners to create a more inclusive future,” said Nike in a statement. This year the sports brand also donated a total of $500,000 to 20 non-profits that help advance Asian American, Middle East and Pacific Islander communities. 
Valentino

 

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On 24th February, the Italian fashion house put out a statement condemning the attacks. On the link in their bio. you can also access helpful resources, informative articles, centres for donations and volunteering. 
Phillip Lim 

 

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In an emotional video on his personal Instagram, the designer digs up images of his family as they moved to America, and what it means to be an immigrant. Lim calls the USA, “A safe haven with a promise of infinite possibilities and the freedom to pursue the American dream in a country we all call home.” In his closing statement, he asks fellow Americans to stand by to #StopAsianHate. 
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