Bandai Namco US Speaks Out Against Anti-Asian Racism

The United States division of Japan-based game developer and publishing company, Bandai Namco, published a statement denouncing anti-Asian hate via Twitter on Tuesday, March 16.

In its tweet, the company drew direct attention to "the recent rise in anti-Asian hate" and "rise in hate crimes committed against people of Asian descent." It explained that the issue hit close to home for many employees, considering Bandi Namco was originally established and has been headquartered in Tokyo since 2006.

Bandai Namco went on to thank fans for their support and ask for their help to fight the growth of anti-Asian discrimination in the US.

Bandai Namco Speaks Out Against Anti-Asian Racism

In its statement, the company declared its condemnation of racism and xenophobia.

"BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment American remains committed to the ideals of inclusion, diversity, and fairness; while condemning all acts of violence, bullying, discrimination, and xenophobia," It wrote, "We stand in solidarity with the Asain American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community, our culturally diverse and inclusive team of employees, and especially our elders, to speak out and raise awareness against the terrible rise in anti-Asian aggression and hate crimes."

Bandai Namco ended its message with the hashtag "#StopAsianHate"—which has been trending on Twitter with sentiments not unlike those shared by the company.

This statement came the afternoon before the recent shooting of Atlanta-area spas that left eight people dead—six of which were of Asian descent. However, Atlanta police are still determining whether or not the incident was racially motivated.

Anti-Asian discrimination in the US has risen by 149% from 2019 to 2020, according to a study published by the Center Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism at California State University in San Bernardino. Many allege that this is the direct result of accusations made surrounding the coronavirus pandemic.