A few (Asian-American) followers have asked me today why I “haven’t” been vocal about xenophobia towards Asians during this pandemic, and why I am speaking on Black Lives Matter. Since it is #AAPIHM , here is my response: I don’t support ANY type of discrimination at all...

When it comes to xenophobia towards Asians, it upsets me of course & at the same time reminds me how this country scapegoats different groups during an emergency/war/conflict & the cyclic nature of racism towards Asian-Americans (i.e. Chinese Exclusion Act, Vincent Chin, etc.)...

I actually spent ALL last week on a daily livestream w/ the Smithsonian Museum & @TheoGonzalves discussing & unpacking Asian xenophobia: https://americanhistory.si.edu/events/viral-histories-stories-racism-resilience-and-resistance-asian-american-communities & I talk about these issues extensively in my music (i.e. CIRCA91), interviews, speeches, etc. As an Asian-American...

.. even during this pandemic, I STILL DON’T face the same racism as Black people do. I can’t talk about social justice for our community without understanding the histories & struggles of others esp the Black community. Solidarity is key and awareness of intersectionality is key.

Again, if the xenophobia towards Asians upsets you, then what is happening to Black lives should upset you, too. #BlackLivesMatter