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COVID-19’s Attack on Hispanics (Felipe Barria)

Since 2019, Hispanics made up 20% of the essential workers in transportation and warehousing and 40% in the cleaning business (Center of Public Integrity). COVID-19 has impacted multiple groups of ethnicities; however, COVID-19 has heavily impacted minorities, especially Hispanics. How does COVID-19 impact Hispanic communities and jobs in Massachusetts and Illinois?

In Massachusetts, Hispanics cover 12% of the population, but the Massachusetts Hispanics make up for 30% of COVID-19 cases in (22News). Massachusetts Latinos have also been hit heavily in their jobs since many Hispanics that live in Massachusetts were considered essential workers. In early April, a town, Chelsea, Massachusetts, was hit incredibly hard by the virus. As of April 7th, there was a rate of about 79 cases of COVID-19 per 10,000 residents. The statistic is an alarming rate considering it is greater than the rate per resident in Boston, Massachusetts. Dr. Joseph Betancourt, Massachusetts General Hospital’s Chief Equity and Inclusion Officer, had approximated that 35-40% of the patients that were confirmed to have the COVID-19 were Hispanic (ACLU Mass.). Dr. Joseph Betancourt claimed that COVID-19 is an “absolute epidemic” in “hoods like Chelsea”. The reason why towns with a large Hispanic population may be affected heavily is that many are considered essential workers, and the places those Hispanics live in are tight apartments that the virus can easily spread in. State Representative Carlos Gonzalez confirms this theory since he believes that many Latinos are living in dense areas in small apartments and working during the pandemic. Carlos Gonzales also states that Hispanics are at a disadvantage with inequalities of housing in towns like Chelsea.

Similarly, a similar situation is occurring in Little Village Chicago, Illinois. The Hispanics in Chicago represent almost 39% of confirmed COVID-19 cases. However, the Hispanic population only covers 30% of the population (CNN). The Hispanic population and COVID-19 infection statistics are very similar to the ones in Massachusetts. Massachusetts and Illinois’ Latinos are being affected heavily based on the fact that many are labeled as essential workers. Frankie Miranda, president of the Hispanic Federation, states, “These are the delivery food people, the people that are the day workers, the farmworkers, these are people that are working in restaurants. They are essential services, and now they are not enjoying the protections that maybe in other industries people can have” (CNN). 

Sources: 

https://www.wwlp.com/news/local-news/hampden-county/covid-19-disproportionately-impacting-hispanic-communities-in-massachusetts/ 

https://www.aclum.org/en/publications/data-show-covid-19-hitting-essential-workers-and-people-color-hardest 

https://www.cnn.com/2020/05/09/us/hispanic-population-coronavirus-impact/index.html 

https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2020/05/05/financial-and-health-impacts-of-covid-19-vary-widely-by-race-and-ethnicity/ 

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10 Comments

  1. Thanks for your marvelous posting! I really enjoyed reading it, you could be a great author. I will be sure to bookmark your blog and definitely will come back in the foreseeable future. I want to encourage you to continue your great posts
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  2. COVID-19’s impact on the Hispanic community has been particularly devastating. Factors like crowded living conditions and limited access to healthcare have exacerbated the toll. It’s crucial to prioritize equitable vaccine distribution and targeted support for this vulnerable population. Together, we can bridge these disparities and build a more resilient, inclusive future.

  3. COVID-19 has reshaped our world, leaving an indelible mark on history. Its impact on healthcare, economies, and daily life has been profound. While vaccines offer hope, vigilance remains crucial. Let’s continue to support frontline workers, follow guidelines, and prioritize safety. Together, we’ll overcome this global challenge.

  4. The juxtaposition of COVID-19 and red eye images is a poignant reminder of the multifaceted impact of the pandemic. While red eyes can be a symptom of the virus, they also symbolize the strain, fatigue, and collective sorrow that has swept the globe. These images serve as a stark visual testament to the resilience and unity needed to combat this unprecedented challenge. Let us continue to prioritize safety measures and support one another through these trying times. Together, we will emerge stronger.

  5. COVID-19 has disproportionately affected Hispanic communities, highlighting critical issues in healthcare access and economic vulnerability. Felipe Barria’s analysis delves into why these communities have been hit so hard and what can be done to address the inequities.

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