The Need for AAPI Historical Empathy

DMH UCLA Public Mental Health Partnership

The evolution and continuation of anti-AAPI (Asian American Pacific Islander) hate throughout U.S. history was based on the belief that AAPIs were inferior and a threat to mainstream Americans. Supported and fostered by legislation, media, and hate crimes, the AAPI population became marginalized individuals. Building an understanding of AAPI history provides a context to counterbalance racism with truth and insight. From the 1850’s to the present, anti-AAPI hate has impacted the psyche of our communities creating fear and ongoing trauma.

Mental health professionals’ development of greater historical empathy will further benefit the mental health treatment of the overall AAPI population. This training will include discussion on how the COVID pandemic exacerbated AAPI hate and will encourage participants to share how legislation has impacted their family, friends, and clients.