Plantronics Inc.

04/15/2021 | News release | Distributed by Public on 04/15/2021 11:59

Taking Action – Poly Shows Support for Anti-Asian Hate Crimes Bill

Today Poly sent a letter to Senator Mazie Hirono (D HI) and Representative Grace Meng (D NY-6) voicing support for their COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act(S. 937 and H.R. 6271).

This bill was introduced in response to the rising anti-Asian hate facing Americans following the COVID-19 pandemic. The COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act is cosponsored by 39 other Senators and 35 other Representatives, with vocal support from President Biden. It is expected to be voted on this week in the Senate.

If passed, the bill would require the Department of Justice to designate an officer or employee to facilitate the expedited review of COVID-19 hate crimes and reports of COVID-19 hate crimes. It defines 'COVID-19 hate crime' as a violent crime motivated by:

  1. The actual or perceived characteristic (e.g., race) of any person, and
  2. The actual or perceived relationship to the spread of COVID-19 of any person because of that characteristic.

In the letter, Poly's CEO, Dave Shull wrote:

'The rapid and concerning rise of anti-Asian hate is antithetical to Poly's mission. Poly is driven by the power of many. We exist to enhance the power of human connection, to pass the limits, and make seamless collaboration possible. We aim to be responsible global citizens in all facets of our business. With Poly's diverse community of customers and partners, hate toward one of us is hate toward all of us.

In no uncertain terms, Poly condemns hate, racism, and bigotry and is committed to equity and inclusion. Diversity and inclusivity are fundamental to how we approach connecting people. We do not and will not tolerate hate, racism, or violence in our workplace or the communities in which we reside.'

Poly will work with other industry leaders and Members of Congress to support the passing of this important legislation because hate is antithetical to Poly's mission.

A download of the letter is available at this link.