WASHINGTON – Today,Rep. Marcia L. Fudge (OH-11) joined Reps. J. Luis Correa (CA-46) and Eddie Bernice Johnson (TX-30) to introduce a resolution recognizing the disproportionate impact the ongoing coronavirus (also known as COVID-19) pandemic is having on people of color.  The resolution urges swift action to identify and address health disparities, including the collection and publication of racial and ethnic data related to COVID-19 tests, diagnoses, and treatments.  Rep. Fudge is a cosponsor of the resolution.

While demographic information on testing and treatment for the coronavirus has been limited, early racial and ethnic data from some states has shown that African Americans account for alarming percentages of total infections and deaths related to the disease.  For example, in Louisiana, African Americans represent one-third of the state population, yet account for more than 70 percent of COVID-19 deaths.  Likewise, African Americans represent 14 percent of the population in Michigan, but account for 33 percent of COVID-19 cases and 41 percent of deaths.

“Early data indicates African Americans and other minority populations are significantly more likely to become sick and die from the coronavirus,” said Rep. Fudge.  “This pandemic is starkly exposing the health disparities and inequities in America.  Communities of color have long experienced inadequate access to health care, housing, healthy food, and economic opportunity, which increases the prevalence of coronavirus risk factors, such as diabetes, asthma, heart disease, and high blood pressure.

“To begin to address the disparities and ensure resources are being distributed fairly during this crisis, we need to understand the full extent of the problem we face today.  I’m proud to cosponsor this resolution to recognize the harmful health disparities faced by communities of color and urge the publication of racial and ethnic data concerning coronavirus testing and treatment.”

“We also cannot afford to dismiss longstanding health inequities once the current pandemic passes.  By taking concrete action to address them, we can reduce risk and save lives now during the pandemic, and in the future.”

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