Congresswoman Johnson Introduces Resolution on Disproportionate Impact of COVID-19 on Minority Communities

Statement

Today, Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (TX-30) and Congressman J. Luis Correa (CA-46) are introducing a resolution with 91 House members to recognize this month as National Minority Health Month and to urge immediate action to address the harmful health disparities faced by communities of color during the coronavirus pandemic. Minority populations, including African Americans, Hispanics, American Indians, Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, Asian Americans, and Pacific Islanders, have historically suffered from high rates of chronic disease and inadequate access to health care services, which has resulted in worsened health outcomes associated with this novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

"During this coronavirus pandemic, our minority communities are confronted with alarming statistics -- higher rates of comorbidities, more barriers in accessing health care, and higher reported rates of death. These vulnerabilities warrant our society's undivided attention," said Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson. "I am proud to lead this resolution with my colleague Congressman Correa calling for immediate action on the harmful health disparities faced by communities of color during this pandemic."

Rep. Lou Correa said, "It has never been more clear than it is now how dangerous healthcare inequality is. With coronavirus raging across the United States, there has never been a more important time to talk about health disparity. Lack of access to basic care is putting lives at risk. Everyone needs access to vital care regardless of their race or socioeconomic status. We must never forget that lives are at stake."

Reported data on racial disparities in health outcomes related to COVID-19 include:

in Florida, five counties have reported that African Americans and Latino Americans have been hospitalized at higher rates than non-Hispanic patients;
in Michigan, African Americans represent 14% of the population, yet account for 33% of COVID--19 cases and 41% of deaths from COVID--19;
in Illinois, African Americans represent 14.6% of the population yet account for 28% of COVID--19 cases;
in Louisiana, African Americans represent one-third of the population, yet account for more than 70% of COVID--19 deaths;
in Milwaukee County, home to the largest city in Wisconsin, African Americans represent 26% of the population, yet account for nearly 70% of COVID--19 deaths; and
in the five New York City ZIP Codes with the highest COVID--19 infection rates, Latino Americans and Asian Americans have higher infection rates than non-Hispanic Whites.

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