Experts- Population surge, Chinese influence cannot be underestimated_1

A recent study from the Asian American Research and Engagement (AAIRE) organization has shed light on the profound impact of language barriers on social participation and voting rights within the Asian community. Elected officials and community leaders are urging immediate action from both government and candidates to tackle these pressing challenges, especially as the Asian population continues to grow.

The study reveals that 52% of Asian respondents feel language barriers deter them from voting, while 19% mention that these language issues prevent their family members from grasping the electoral process.

In response to these findings, researchers have proposed a set of policy recommendations aimed at local governments and public service agencies. They advocate for enhanced language support services, particularly in crucial sectors like emergency medical services, law enforcement, and legal assistance. Additionally, the report emphasizes the need for improved language and cultural adaptation programs to better serve immigrant families, thereby helping the Asian community integrate and engage more fully in public life. The researchers also call for increased Asian representation within government and public sectors to bridge the cultural and linguistic divide, enhancing accessibility and equity in public services.

Jin Xuan-Yu, a seasoned political campaign strategist, commented on the significance of these findings for the Asian community in advocating for essential government resources and shaping candidate campaign strategies. “A decade ago, if a non-Asian candidate managed to translate a few English flyers into Chinese or hosted an event for the Chinese community, it was seen as a major achievement. Now, candidates must hire staff who are not only fluent in the community’s languages but also genuinely engage with its members to understand their concerns and positions. Having Chinese materials has become almost non-negotiable, reflecting the growing influence of the Chinese community.”

Councilwoman Liu Qiao-Yi from North Hempstead echoed the importance of this survey for securing resources, stating, “Data is incredibly powerful. Without solid data, we can’t effectively advocate for the resources our community deserves. That’s why I strongly support this organization’s efforts in gathering critical data on the Asian community’s needs.” She further noted her commitment to utilizing the report’s insights to provide meaningful assistance to the Asian community.