White House to host K-pop stars BTS, talk about anti-Asian hate crimes

The White House informed on Thursday that Joe Biden will host K-pop stars BTS at the White House. President Biden will welcome the group on Tuesday, May 31. There has been a surge in hate crimes against Asians. Hence, the motive of meeting the band is to “discuss Asian inclusion and representation and to address anti-Asian hate crimes and discrimination which have become more prominent issues in recent years.”

“Biden and BTS will also discuss the importance of diversity and inclusion and BTS` platform as youth ambassadors who spread a message of hope and positivity across the world,” the White House said in its statement.

The social event takes place as Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander month draws to an end in May, amidst a dramatic rise in hateful attacks against Asian Americans in the previous year. The hate crimes are a result of some politicians and commentators encouraging Americans to blame China for COVID-19. Other problems have led to an increase in attacks against persons of Asian heritage. A guy has been convicted of shooting three Asian ladies at a Dallas hair salon earlier this month. The incident is being looked at as a possible hate crime by authorities.

339% increase in hate crimes against Asian Americans

Hate crimes increased 339 percent last year over 2020, according to the data. This is a massive leap from the 124 percent increase in 2020 in comparison to 2019.

“We cannot allow these horrific acts to continue threatening the safety of AA and NHPI Americans especially women, girls, and the elderly,” said Biden. “These acts are wrong; they are un-American, and they must stop.”

The group’s management Big Hit Music was happy to receive the invitation to the White House. “As we are visiting as artists representing South Korea, we look forward to discussing various topics including inclusion, diversity, anti-Asian hate crimes, culture, and art,” Big Hit Music said.

This is not the first time Biden is inviting celebrities for discussions at the White House. Biden has regularly requested celebrities to speak about a variety of social concerns. Popstar Selena Gomez visited the White House last week for a discussion about youth and mental health. Then, singer Olivia Rodrigo met with Biden and Anthony Fauci in July. It was to discuss the significance of young Americans receiving vaccinations.

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