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Article
Discrimination Experiences during COVID-19 among a National, Multi-Lingual, Community-Based Sample of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders: COMPASS Findings
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
  • Van M. Ta Park, University of California, San Francisco
  • Marcelle M. Dougan, San Jose State University
  • Oanh L. Meyer, UC Davis School of Medicine
  • Bora Nam, University of California, San Francisco
  • Marian Tzuang, University of California, San Francisco
  • Linda G. Park, University of California, San Francisco
  • Quyen Vuong, International Children Assistance Network
  • Joon Bang, Iona Senior Services
  • Janice Y. Tsoh, University of California, San Francisco
Publication Date
1-1-2022
Document Type
Article
DOI
10.3390/ijerph19020924
Abstract

Reports of escalated discrimination among Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) due to COVID-19 are alarming, making this a public health priority. However, there are limited empirical studies on the scope and impact of COVID-19-related discrimination among AAPIs. Using the COVID-19 Effects on the Mental and Physical Health of AAPI Survey Study (COMPASS) data (N = 4971; survey period: October 2020–February 2021), which is a U.S.-wide multi-lingual survey, we examined the prevalence of, and factors associated with discrimination experiences attributable to being an AAPI during the COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, 60.7% reported experiencing discrimination; the group prevalence ranged from 80.0% (Hmong) to 40.5% (Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders). Multivariable logistic regression models revealed that COVID-19-related factors were associated with many discrimination experiences: having a shelter-in-place order of ≥1 month, living in areas with perceived similar/higher COVID-19 severity, and negative impact in family income/employment due to COVID-19. Additionally, being Asian American (versus Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders), females, non-heterosexuals, younger, more severe effect on family income, living in the non-West, and poorer health were significantly correlated with discrimination experiences. Findings may assist in formulating anti-AAPI-discrimination policies and programs at the local, state, and federal levels. Culturally appropriate programs and policies to combat this are urgently needed.

Funding Number
3R24AG063718-02S1
Funding Sponsor
National Institutes of Health
Keywords
  • Asian Americans,
  • COVID-19,
  • Discrimination,
  • Native Hawaiians and Pacific islanders
Creative Commons License
Creative Commons Attribution 4.0
Citation Information
Van M. Ta Park, Marcelle M. Dougan, Oanh L. Meyer, Bora Nam, et al.. "Discrimination Experiences during COVID-19 among a National, Multi-Lingual, Community-Based Sample of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders: COMPASS Findings" International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health Vol. 19 Iss. 2 (2022)
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/marcelle-dougan/22/