Biden signs bill aimed at addressing rise in anti-Asian hate crimes

President Joe Biden signed into law on Thursday a bill that is aimed at countering a rise in anti-Asian hate crimes during the coronavirus pandemic, saying the legislation is part of the nation's first step toward unity.

"I believe, with every fiber of my being, that there are simple, core values and beliefs that should bring us together as Americans. One of them is standing together against hate, against racism -- an ugly poison that has long haunted and plagued our nation," Biden told a group of advocates, agency officials and a bipartisan group of lawmakers inside the East Room of the White House. "Today I can say that because of all of you ... you've taken that first step."