Event Details

Academic Seminar Series with Lancaster University Confucius Institute

Abstract:

'This paper employs a multidisciplinary approach, integrating computer science, applied linguistics, and cultural studies to analyse #StopAsianHate tweets on X/Twitter, offering a nuanced exploration of digital activism against anti-Asian racism. Key findings highlight the "model minority" stereotype as a collective identity label imposed on ethnic minority communities of Chinese, East Asian, and Southeast Asian heritage. This stereotype perpetuates societal invisibility and subordination while promoting the myth of a post-racial, colourblind United States. A historical dimension is explored through Trauner's (1978) concept of "medical scapegoating," which describes the persistent blaming of ethnic Chinese/Asian individuals for public health crises since the 19th century. The study underscores the transformative role of social networking services in advancing social justice movements, with #StopAsianHate functioning as a counter-discourse. This hashtag fosters in-group solidarity and cross-community alliances in opposition to racism while facilitating self-reflective discourse within Asian communities about the challenges and opportunities surrounding "model minority" stereotypes. By examining these dynamics, the study provides fresh insights into the complexities of the #StopAsianHate movement and its implications for combating anti-Asian hate crimes online.'

Speaker Biography:

Dr Yan Wu works as Associate Professor in Media and Communication Studies, Swansea University. Her research interests focus on the social impacts of digital media and communication in China and digital inclusivity for sensory impaired users. Her publications appear in journals such as New Media and Society; Global Media and China; International Journal of Digital Television, Journal of Contemporary Chinese art; Modern Communication and as book chapters on the topics of digital media and public spheres; migration and the media; Chinese public diplomacy and digital media, etc.