FR 2021-02073

The Presidential Memorandum titled "Condemning and Combating Racism, Xenophobia, and Intolerance Against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States" outlines a series of efforts targeted at reducing racism and discrimination faced by Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities. Issued in response to increasing incidents of intolerance, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, the memorandum emphasizes the importance of fostering inclusion and dignity for all individuals regardless of their ethnic backgrounds.

Summary of the Memorandum

The document begins by condemning the rise in discrimination against AAPI communities, linked in part to rhetoric used during the COVID-19 pandemic, which often associated the virus with its geographical origin. The memorandum highlights the vital contributions of AAPI individuals, especially those serving as frontline workers during the health crisis. It calls upon various federal departments to ensure their actions do not perpetuate racism and to collaborate with AAPI community leaders and public health experts.

The memorandum assigns specific tasks to the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Attorney General. These tasks include developing best practices for sensitivity and cultural competency and exploring ways to support state and local efforts to combat hate crimes against AAPI individuals.

Issues and Concerns

Several issues arise with the implementation of the memorandum:

1. Ambiguity in Implementation: The directive urges agencies to take "all appropriate steps" without specifying what these steps might include. This broad language might result in varying interpretations and inconsistent application across different departments.

2. Stakeholder Engagement: The call for consultation with AAPI leaders and public health experts is commendable but may face practical challenges. The memorandum's general language could complicate unified and effective stakeholder engagement.

3. Fiscal Implications: The document lacks details about potential costs or budgetary impacts. Without clear budgetary guidance, it remains difficult to ascertain the financial resources required to implement these initiatives effectively.

4. Vagueness and Execution: Terms like "explore opportunities" could lead to varied levels of commitment and action from different agencies, potentially undermining the intended impact of these directives.

Impact on the Public and Stakeholders

Broad Public Impact: By promoting inclusivity and actively condemning discrimination, this memorandum has the potential to foster a more harmonious societal atmosphere. The actions mandated can enhance safety and equity, contributing to the broader public good.

Impact on AAPI Communities: Positively, AAPI individuals may experience increased support and recognition from federal agencies, potentially reducing the incidence of hate crimes. However, the success of these efforts largely depends on how agencies interpret and act upon the memorandum's directives. Without clear guidelines, AAPI communities might not see immediate or uniform improvements in their lived experiences.

Impact on Federal Agencies: While the memorandum encourages proactive steps, it also poses challenges for federal agencies tasked with its implementation. The lack of specificity might necessitate additional efforts to formulate actionable strategies, potentially leading to delays in concrete outcomes.

In conclusion, while the memorandum is a significant step toward addressing discrimination against AAPI communities, its effectiveness will rely on clear guidelines, dedicated resources, and a commitment to coherent implementation across various federal entities.