Asian communities’ well-being in Aotearoa during Covid-19

Abstract

This study examines the effects of racism on the well-being of Asian communities in Aotearoa during the Covid-19 pandemic. We explore how a sense of belonging can protect against the negative impacts of racism on life satisfaction. The study involved 1341 participants who completed an online survey. We found that experiencing racism was associated with decreased life satisfaction. However, participants who had a stronger sense of belonging, including pride in their ethnic identity and feeling at home in Aotearoa, reported higher life satisfaction despite facing racism. These findings highlight the importance of fostering a sense of belonging as a protective factor alongside anti-racism efforts. The study's practical implications extend beyond Asian communities and can support other marginalized ethnic groups experiencing racism during the pandemic and other times of crisis.