Larson Highlights Need to Address Disparities in COVID-19 Impact in Communities of Color in Connecticut

Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) highlighted how communities of color in Connecticut have been affected by the COVID-19 and the disparities that exist during a Ways and Means hearing , on the "Disproportionate Impact of COVID-19 on Communities of Color." This was first virtual hearing the House of Representatives held since the COVID-19 pandemic began.

"The COVID-19 pandemic has devastated communities of color underscoring existing inequities in our country. People of color are getting sick and dying from COVID-19 in disproportionate numbers. In Connecticut, African Americans represent 10% of the population, yet represent 19% of COVID cases and 15% of deaths. Local news has featured stories from leaders and members of minority communities in Connecticut describing their difficulties getting tested for COVID-19. In cities like Hartford in my district, many patients were denied testing at local hospitals. Some went to community health centers, to find that these centers had limited testing resources. The City of Hartford, along with the state of Connecticut, have worked to expand testing in the city, including free walk up testing sites, but they can't do this alone," said Larson. "We need to make sure that our state and local governments, hospitals and health centers are equipped to serve communities of color with solutions that fit their specific needs. As we start to reopen the country, we must ensure that communities of color both have the testing and contact tracing needed to prevent further spread."

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