TAAF Condemns President Trump for Amplifying Racist Rhetoric Targeting Chinese and Indian Immigrants

We are appalled by President Trump’s decision to share the transcript of a podcast that denigrates Chinese and Indian immigrants. By amplifying xenophobic rhetoric that questions the loyalty of immigrant and Asian American communities, the President legitimizes and effectively endorses these deeply racist beliefs.

Our 2025 STAATUS Index highlights the dangerous reality that 40% of Americans believe that Asian Americans are more loyal to their countries of origin than to the U.S., and 1 in 4 U.S. adults are concerned that Chinese Americans are a threat to U.S. society. In recent months, we have also seen an alarming rise in hate incidents against South Asian Americans. When government officials amplify anti-Asian tropes at the highest levels, they signal that discrimination is not only acceptable, but encouraged. 

Just five short years ago, xenophobic sentiment platformed by the Trump Administration correlated with a rise in anti-Asian attacks during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. We call on President Trump and other public officials to cease amplifying rhetoric that targets and endangers all American citizens. 

True leadership means protecting the safety and belonging of every American. We know that words have the power to drive action and we urge our nation’s leaders to demonstrate unity rather than hate. 

‍

About The Asian American Foundation (TAAF)

TAAF serves the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community by promoting safety, fostering belonging, and advancing prosperity. Launched in 2021 in response to the rise in anti-Asian hate and to address the long-standing underinvestment in AAPI communities, we invest in initiatives to combat anti-Asian hate, integrate AAPI studies into school curricula, elevate authentic AAPI storytelling, and expand resources and representation for our communities. Through our high-impact initiatives, events, and investments in national and local nonprofits, we’re creating a permanent and irrevocable sense of belonging for millions of AAPIs in the United States. For additional information about TAAF, please visit www.taaf.org or follow @TAAForg on Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, or Facebook.