As of mid-May 2020, the Department of Labor reported that nearly 3 million people are filing for unemployment insurance per week, bringing the total tally of unemployed to 36.5 million people. These numbers speak to the effects of COVID-19 on the US economy. At the same time, existing economic inequalities are further complicated by the racial stigma that Asians, Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders (A/AA & NHPI) continue to experience due to the virus. 

Anecdotal accounts suggest that A/AA & NHPI businesses and workers have similarly suffered economic and social losses as a result of racial stigma, with news and anecdotal accounts suggesting that Chinatowns and other businesses located in Asian ethnic enclaves have experienced a loss of business, which may persist after shelter-in-place orders are lifted.

This study aims to systemically analyze the racialized dimensions of economic downturn caused by disasters by focusing on how Asian and Asian American (A/AA) small businesses and workers continue to be affected by COVID-19. Our research team will interview A/AA small businesses owners, gig economy workers, low-wage laborers in essential industries, individuals working in intimate labor (including massage, acupuncture, & sex work), and healthcare & other paid care workers. We will also interview members of community-based organizations that are mobilizing to support A/AA businesses and workers disproportionately affected by the pandemic. 

This study is guided by the following research questions: (1) How has racial stigma and social distancing impacted A/AA workers and businesses like the service, gig, and intimate industries? What strategies are A/AA small businesses and communities adopting to combat and mitigate financial losses incurred both from racist attitudes and economic downturn? (2) How are institutional, governmental, corporate policies (like sick leave and the stimulus package) impacting A/AA workers and businesses across various industries and their ability to navigate these tricky economic circumstances? (3) How are A/AA community-based organizations and activists mobilizing to provide financial and social support to A/AA workers and businesses?