New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has declared racism a "public health crisis," signing an entire package of legislation Dec. 23 aimed at addressing discrimination and racial injustice in the state.
"For far too long, communities of color in New York have been held back by systemic racism and inequitable treatment," Hochul said in a statement last week.
"I am proud to sign legislation that addresses this crisis head-on, addressing racism, expanding equity, and improving access for all.".
The legislation has been spearheaded by state assembly members Karines Reyes and Yuh-Line Niou, Sens.
Legislation S.6639-A/A.6896-A will require that the state collect specific demographic information to keep a "more accurate and relevant public record" of Asian-American populations in New York.
Senator Julia Salazar says data collection is important toward acknowledging the needs of certain communities and allowing proper resources to be allocated to them.
"Asian-American communities are among the most impoverished in New York," Niou said. »
