AAS Statement on Fulbright Exchange Program

In response to Section 3 (i) of “The President’s Executive Order on Hong Kong Normalization,” issued by Donald Trump on July 14, 2020.

AAS Board of Directors
July 16, 2020

The executive order to end the Fulbright Exchange Program for China and Hong Kong is extremely short-sighted and will result in long-lasting implications for U.S. foreign affairs. Many of our members have benefited greatly from the Fulbright program, which creates the opportunity for Americans to build networks with and learn from people all over the world. We need more support for such programs at this time in history, not less. We need to build understanding and intellectual knowledge and not foster ignorance. The Association for Asian Studies opposes this order and urges a reconsideration by the administration.  ​