University of Delaware officials believe the flyers were targeting Asian and Asian American students
Newark Post reports that racist flyers targeting Asians were distributed in apartment complexes and on vehicles.
“Kill China Virus,” flyers were found on doors, doorsteps and vehicles at apartment complexes in Newark.
The term ‘Chinese Virus’, which the WHO itself discouraged people to use, has been scrutinised for exacerbating racism towards Chinese people.
Although President Trump has since stated that the virus is “not the fault of Asian Americans”, he came under fire for repeatedly referring to the virus as “Chinese”.
University of Delaware officials described the flyers as “racist and xenophobic”, stating that they were targeting Asian and Asian American students.
“All of us are appalled that this has occurred in our community, and we send our support to the victims and to all individuals who may have fears about being targeted,” officials said in a letter.
“As UD President Assanis explained in his recent message to the UD community, the University of Delaware condemns all forms of hate and discrimination…”
“It is evident that COVID-19 has led to an increase in racist and xenophobic acts such as this one. We understand that you may feel greater fear about your safety. Please know that the entire University community stands in solidarity with you during these most challenging of times.”
Police are currently investigating the incident. “The flyers caused concern to some residents,” said Lt. Andrew Rubin, a spokesman for the Newark Police Department.
However, Rubin added that the crime is not as clear as other racist incidents. “It’s not obvious it’s any crime other than littering or trespassing,” he said.
In related news, an Asian store manager was a beaten up by a customer who refused to wear a mask.