Responding to Crisis in the Latino Population with an Equity Lens
This webinar is part of our special topic series, Health Equity and Social Solidarity in the Time of Pandemic: Strategies for COVID-19 Response and Recovery.
We knew before the coronavirus pandemic arrived not everyone had the same opportunity to live a long and healthy life. COVID-19 has further demonstrated these realities, as communities of color, including Latino communities, are experiencing a disproportionately high number of confirmed cases and rate of death from the virus.
During this webinar, we will be joined by UnidosUS and Esperanza Health Center, a local UnidosUS affiliate serving the Chicago area, to discuss how COVID-19 is placing an even brighter spotlight on many existing disparities experienced by Latino communities. Together we will explore:
• How this pandemic intersects with other key issues including economic and civic engagement, language and culture barriers, and the crisis concerning immigration status in Latino communities
• Approaches for informing Latino communities about coronavirus testing and prevention
• What community groups can do to support Latino families during this crisis
• UnidosUS’ policy priorities for addressing the larger systemic issues brought to the forefront because of COVID-19
We will be joined in this conversation by two featured guests:
• Rita Carreón, Deputy Vice President of Health, UnidosUS
Rita Carreón is Deputy Vice President for Health at UnidosUS (formally National Council of La Raza) in Washington DC. In her current capacity, Rita leads efforts to improve Latinos’ well-being and access to quality, equitable health care by addressing the social determinants of health and cultivating leaders in health.
• Carmen Vergara, Chief Operations Officer, Esperanza Health Centers
Carmen joined Esperanza Health Centers in 2011 and has demonstrated success improving quality and outcomes. She combines research methods, nursing practices and community health strategies to help children better manage their chronic conditions, right in her beloved Little Village where she grew up.
Please note: The views of the speakers are their own.