The Quartz video series “Because China” is the People’s Voice Winner in the News & Politics (Video Series & Channels) category of the 2020 Web Awards.

Tony Lin, the project’s video journalist and an alumnus of GLAAD Media Institute’s first ever session, shared with GLAAD the importance of this recognition. “In Webby’s history of over two decades, Because China is the very first winner in this category that focuses on China and East Asia. The recognition came during Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, which makes the award even more special to me.”

This award comes at time when animosity has heightened towards people of Asian and particularly Chinese descent as people unfairly connect these communities to the COVID-19 pandemic. Lin added, “Through nuanced storytelling and extensive reporting, the series aims to build understanding and fight biases. The recognition is all the more important at a time when anti-Chinese and anti-Asian sentiments have become increasingly rampant. And we’re so grateful to the Webby voters and Because China audience who made us feel seen, heard, and represented.”

The Webby Awards is the leading international award honoring excellence on the Internet. Established in 1996, it is presented by the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences (IADAS)—a 2000+ member judging body.