|
The K-pop stars made brief statements to
reporters prior to the meeting, calling for a halt to crimes
targeting Asian Americans.
"We were devastated by the recent surge of hate crimes,
including Asian American hate crimes," band member Jimin said
through a translator. "To put a stop on this and support the
cause, we'd like to take this opportunity to voice ourselves
once again."
The meeting came as Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific
Islander month in May drew to a close following a sharp upswing
in hate crimes against the community in the past year.
Attacks against people of Asian descent have escalated as some
politicians and pundits have encouraged Americans to blame China
for COVID-19.
While the meeting was closed to press, the White House said one
goal was to "discuss the importance of diversity and inclusion
and BTS' platform as youth ambassadors who spread a message of
hope and positivity across the world."
The musicians are known for using their lyrics and social
campaigns aimed at empowering youngsters since making their
debut in 2013. Their fan base extends into older demographics,
tying their spending clout to an internet-savvy generation that
harnesses the power of social media.
In June 2020, BTS fans raised about $1 million in one day in the
#MatchAMillion online campaign for U.S. social justice causes,
matching the band's donation to Black Lives Matter.
The group's management Big Hit Music said it was honored to be
invited to the White House.
"As we are visiting as artists representing South Korea, we look
forward to discussing various topics including inclusion,
diversity, anti-Asian hate crimes, culture and art," Big Hit
Music said.
(Reporting by Steve Holland and Doina Chiacu; Additional
reporting by Jeff Mason and Alexandra Alper; editing by Jonathan
Oatis and Richard Chang)
[© 2022 Thomson Reuters. All rights
reserved.] This material may not be published,
broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Thompson Reuters is solely responsible for this content.]
|
|
