Gov. Tim Walz launched a discrimination helpline on Monday following reports of bias against Asian-Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Minnesotans are resilient people who support their neighbors when the going gets tough," Walz said in a statement. "As Asian-Americans in Minnesota report heightened cases of discrimination amid COVID-19, my message is clear: Viruses don't discriminate, and neither do we."

Minnesotans can call the toll-free helpline, at 1-833-454-0148, to report bias and discrimination that they've seen or experienced to the state Department of Human Rights. The helpline is staffed Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Some Asian-Americans have reported being blamed for COVID-19 when they're in public, or being treated as if they're carriers of the virus. Over the weekend, a woman on a New York City bus had to get stitches after teenagers allegedly attacked her and accused her of causing the pandemic.

"There's a distinct pattern in our nation's history of increased discrimination during uncertain and trying times, of needing someone to blame," Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan said in a statement. "This is unacceptable and, as Minnesotans, we must work to break this cycle."

Bo Thao-Urabe, executive and network director of the Coaliton of Asian-American Leaders, said in a statement that a broad base of Asian Minnesotan organizations agree the hotline is needed.

"By collecting stories from victims and bystanders, and by working together with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights to understand that information, we are letting people know that what is happening to them is not OK, and we are serious about strengthening communities to ensure everyone's safety," she said.

Maya Rao • 612-673-4210

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