Question.2643 - Discussion #5 v Environmental racism and environmental injustices are woven throughout our class readings. This week you absorbed material that discusses the ways these factors have played into the COVID-19 pandemic. Please discuss how you see environmentalracism and the coronavirus intersecting within Minnesota and across the country. In what ways does COVID-19 and environmental racism affect BIPOC (Black, Indigenous,Commun ities/Peop le of Color) individuals and communities? Please make sure your post is 4·5 full paragraphs and you must include references from your readings. You are required to respond to my guided question(s) by Saturday at 11:59pm. You are also required to respond to a fellow classmate's post by Sunday at
Answer Below:
The COVID-19 pandemic and environmental racism have intersected significantly in Minnesota and the United States, leading to amplified inequalities and a disproportionate impact on BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, Communities/People of Color) individuals and communities (Wilson, et al., 2020). This convergence reflects how historical and contemporary environmental injustices have influenced health risk distribution and resource access, particularly affecting marginalized groups during the pandemic. In Minnesota and across the US, environmental racism is evident through the uneven distribution of pollution sources and hazardous facilities in BIPOC communities (Wilson, et al., 2020). These areas face higher levels of pollution from industries, waste sites, and traffic, leading to health disparities that make BIPOC individuals more vulnerable to severe COVID- 19 outcomes. Poor air quality in these communities can cause respiratory issues, further increasing the risk. Moreover, environmental racism contributes to the prevalence of underlying health conditions among BIPOC communities. Limited access to green spaces and recreational areas in urban environments leads to reduced physical activity, higher rates of obesity, and related health problems. Inadequate healthcare access in these areas also results in higher rates of diabetes, hypertension, and other risk factors for severe COVID-19 outcomes (Izar, 2021). The economic impact of the pandemic has also disproportionately affected BIPOC individuals and communities. Many work in essential industries with a higher risk of exposure to the virus, lacking the option to work remotely and leaving them economically vulnerable due to a lack of comprehensive paid sick leave and affordable healthcare. Nationwide, similar patterns of environmental racism and COVID-19 connections have been observed. Low-income BIPOC neighborhoods often lack access to quality healthcare facilities, making it difficult for residents to access testing, treatment, and vaccines (Izar, 2021). Language barriers and distrust in the medical system add to these challenges. The pandemic has also highlighted the digital divide, with BIPOC students facing barriers to remote learning due to limited internet access and technological resources, perpetuating systemic inequalities and limiting future opportunities. Addressing the intersection of environmental racism and COVID-19 requires comprehensive and equitable policies at the local and national levels. Stricter regulations on polluting industries and considering cumulative environmental hazards' impacts on vulnerable communities are crucial for prioritizing environmental justice (Izar, 2021). Investments in affordable housing, healthcare infrastructure, and public transportation can help ease the burden on BIPOC individuals. Public health efforts should focus on improving access to testing, vaccines, and healthcare resources in underserved communities, employing culturally sensitive and community-driven outreach programs to bridge gaps in health disparities. In conclusion, the convergence of environmental racism and the COVID-19 pandemic has exposed and exacerbated existing inequalities. BIPOC individuals and communities bear a disproportionate burden of environmental hazards and health risks related to the virus (Wilson, et al., 2020). To address these issues, society must confront systemic racism, prioritize environmental justice, and ensure inclusive and equitable pandemic responses. Only through collective action and a commitment to justice can a healthier and more resilient future be built for all communities. References Izar Helfenstein Fonseca, L. (2021). Climate Change, the COVID-19 Pandemic, and Environmental Injustice: Understanding the Root Causes and Interactions. Wilson, S. M., Bullard, R., Patterson, J., & Thomas, S. B. (2020). Roundtable on the pandemics of racism, environmental injustice, and COVID-19 in America. Environmental Justice, 13(3), 56-64.More Articles From Ethics
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