Apr 24, 2020
COVID-19 has been called "the Great Equalizer" because of its lethal attacks on people of all races, genders, and economic backgrounds. Yet African Americans are disproportionately affected by the coronavirus, causing more illness and more death. This "great equalizer" characterization is not only inaccurate but is, in fact, increasing the danger to African Americans. Doug and Robin discuss an article, "What the COVID-19 Pandemic Means for Black Americans," by Dr. Uche Blackstock. In the article, Dr. Blackstock discusses how structural racism has caused chronic health conditions in African Americans and how this is posing special and unequal threats to African Americans. Doug and Robin examine the issues presented in the article from racial bias in testing to the white doctors' preference for white patients. They will also discuss how Black Americans can protect themselves from "death by COVID-19." This uncommon conversation will wake you up and could save your life.