Political rhetoric targeting Indians and other Asian communities, along with stricter anti-immigrant policies, has kept hate levels high in the United States in 2025, according to a new report by Stop AAPI Hate.
The report states that nearly 49% of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AA/PI) adults experienced some form of hate in 2025. This marks the third consecutive year of consistently high levels, following 53% in 2024 and 49% in 2023. The trend was seen across all groups, regardless of age, gender, income, or background.
Cynthia Choi from Stop AAPI Hate said the data shows that discrimination against these communities has remained “alarmingly high” for three years.
She added that the rise in hate began during the COVID-19 pandemic and continues due to ongoing xenophobic and politically driven narratives.
Researchers linked the trend to factors such as political leaders promoting anti-Indian and anti-Chinese sentiment, as well as campaign rhetoric during the 2024 elections involving Donald Trump. Policies that strengthened anti-immigrant narratives have also contributed to the situation.
Harassment remained the most common form of hate at 44%, followed by institutional discrimination (23%), physical attacks (13%), and property damage (10%). Most incidents occurred online (43%), in public places (40%), and at workplaces or businesses (36%).
The report also highlighted that many victims faced multiple forms of targeting. About 52% said they were attacked not only for their race but also for factors like age (27%), gender (25%), and social status (23%).
Indian-origin individuals were among those affected, with reports of verbal abuse and threats related to deportation.
More than half of respondents (53%) said they or someone they know had been impacted by immigration policies or anti-immigrant sentiment.
Around 36% said their citizenship status had been questioned or feared it could be questioned, while 30% feared detention or deportation. About 28% even considered leaving the U.S.
The report also noted rising hate incidents against Pacific Islanders, increasing to 57% in 2025 from 47% in the previous year.
Mental health impacts were significant. Among those affected, 73% reported stress, 49% felt isolated, and 25% showed signs of anxiety or depression.
Despite the high numbers, reporting remains low. Only 22% approached authorities, while just 33% received any form of support. Nearly half said the support they received was not sufficient.
While participation in anti-racism activities has declined, a majority of respondents said they remain motivated to push for equality and justice.
