Sadly, we've seen a frightening increase in hatred and violence against the Asian community in recent weeks. Celebrities and businesses have taken a stand against the discrimination, and now Yelp is doing its part to help make a difference.
The company's latest economic report revealed consumers searched for Asian-owned businesses at a 120% increase in February 2021 alone. As a result, Yelp joined forces with the nonprofit Gold House to help businesses self-identify as Asian and Pacific Islanders, should they choose to do so.
"We hope Yelp’s new business attribute for AAPI business owners helps drive safe foot traffic into each enclave, benefits local communities economically, and provides community-driven oversight and action into the safety of our neighbors and elders for years to come,” program directors Mikkoh Chen and Megan Ruan said in a statement.
This is not a mandatory move, only one that can be made should owners and managers decide to do so. For those who are interested in self-identification, here's what to do, per Yelp:
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Additionally, the company will work hard to monitor comments and language throughout its listings.
Like Yelp, celebrities are doing what they can to stop the discrimination. Jamie Chung stunned in Oscar de la Renta at the SAG Awards, but her mini "Stop Asian Hate" clutch is what got the attention of fashionistas everywhere.
Meanwhile, Bowen Yang used his time on SNL's Weekend Update to spread awareness. Sure quips like, "Six ways you can check in on your AAPI friends and tell them they’re so hot" put the comedian's signature wit on display, but his underlying tone called for change "I’m just a comedian. I don’t have the answers, but I am not just looking for them online, I’m looking around me," he said.
Even Sandra Oh took a stand during a rally in Pittsburgh.
"I know many of us in our community are scared, and I understand that," she said through a megaphone. "One way to get through our fear is to reach out to our communities. I will challenge everyone here: if you see something, will you help me?
To learn more, visit Stop AAPI Hate.
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