My Take | Don’t be distracted from real racism today

Comments by Bryan Adams and Donald Trump were unwise, but fussing over such minor incidents diverts attention from the abuse many Asians suffer because of the pandemic

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Asian-American leaders in Massachusetts condemned what they say is racism, fearmongering and misinformation aimed at Asian communities amid the coronavirus pandemic that was first reported in China. Photo: AP

Published: 9:00pm, 14 May 2020Updated: 10:16pm, 14 May 2020

I am a fan of Bryan Adams, Donald Trump, not so much. Both men have recently said something impolitic that led to accusations of racism.

In both instances, some people may have been a tad too sensitive about minor offences when there is actually real violent racism against Asians in Western countries because of the coronavirus pandemic.

In the case of the Canadian rocker, I actually agree with what he said, though as a public figure, he might have made the same point with less extreme language. He has since apologised.

Originally, on Instagram, he said: “[T]hanks to some (expletive) bat eating, wet market animal selling, virus making greedy b******s, the whole world is now on hold. My message to them other than “thanks a (expletive) lot” is go vegan.” Racist? Not at all. It’s actually kind of true.

However, he should know that the Chinese government has now banned the trading and consumption of wildlife animals. It remains to be seen how successful Chinese enforcement of the new law will be.

Also, at least two Chinese cities – Zhuhai and Shenzhen – have banned the eating of cats and dogs. Hopefully, others will follow.