I chose to review a project called Virulent Hate (Anti-Asian Hate and Resistance during COVID-19) because I found it intriguing and relevant to my interest in the pandemic. Since the projects on the Reviews in DH website have already been assessed, I wanted to explore something new and contribute my perspective to the discussion. It was also a nice break from trying to dissect articles and datasets.
The Virulent Hate Project was developed by the University of Michigan’s Center for Social Solutions and Poverty Solutions initiative. It is an essential resource for documenting the rise in anti-Asian hate incidents during the COVID-19 pandemic. By analyzing over 4,000 news articles from 2020, the project identified more than 1,000 unique cases of anti-Asian racism. This comprehensive data collection helps us understand the various forms of harassment and discrimination faced by Asian Americans, helping to create a detailed and comprehensive database. The project’s transparent methods, emphasis on storytelling and humanizing (not just treating people like data points), as well as collecting thorough data make it a reliable resource for researchers, policymakers, and the general public.
One of the standout features of the Virulent Hate Project is its user-friendly design. The interactive map and detailed reports allow users to explore where and how these hate incidents occurred, providing valuable insights into the geographical and contextual aspects of anti-Asian harassment. The project also clearly explains its data collection and analysis methods, enhancing its credibility and transparency. I did sort of feel that the project could benefit from an even greater emphasis on storytelling and humanizing, perhaps through more media and images of people who were affected by harassment and discrimination. Sharing the personal stories behind the data would humanize the statistics and help preserve the individual and communal stories shaped by the rise in xenophobia during the pandemic. This approach would make the project even more impactful by providing a deeper, more emotional connection to the data.
Another strong aspect of the project is its commitment to accessibility. The site is designed to be easy to view and navigate, ensuring that the information is available to a wide audience. The project also highlights resilience and activism within Asian American communities, showcasing efforts to resist racism and advocate for change. By providing information on organizations like Stop AAPI Hate and the Bridging Divides Initiative, the Virulent Hate Project not only documents the problem but also supports broader efforts to promote racial justice and equity. Overall, the Virulent Hate Project is a vital, evolving resource that combines thoughtful research with resources and effective next steps.
For more information, visit the Virulent Hate Project website!