Amaar Burton
Entire books have been written about why the Black community is wary when it comes to taking vaccines. America's history of medical racism is now causing health officials to work harder at trying to convince African-Americans that the new COVID-19 vaccine is safe.
Black Scientists, Doctors Reaching Out To Community
In New York, some Black health workers have vowed to be first in line to take the vaccine to show the community it’s safe and effective. Dr. Kaedrea Jackson wrote a column for the New York Daily News to share her faith in the vaccine.
“People like you are going to take the vaccine, and you can use me as an example to see what happens. COVID devastated us, and something needs to be done to make sure this doesn’t happen again.”
A Black Woman Helped Develop Vaccine
While Dr. Anthony Fauci has become the face of the fight against COVID-19, he’s taking a backseat to push forward people like Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett, a Black viral immunologist whose work has been vital in the development of the vaccine.
Fauci Spotlights Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett, @KizzyPhD, the 34-Year-Old Black Woman at the Forefront of COVID Vaccine Development Black women STILL literally saving lives. #BlackGirlMagic
Study Shows Black Americans Don’t Trust Vaccine
A recent study conducted in part by the NAACP revealed that only 14 percent of Black Americans trust the COVID-19 vaccine, and only 18 percent believe it will be effective in warding off the virus.
“a study released by the COVID Collaborative, the NAACP and UnidosUS found that only 14% of Black Americans trust that a vaccine will be safe and 18% trust it will be effective.”
Trey Songz Concert Causes COVID Controversy
R&B crooner Trey Songz performed at a Columbus, Ohio, nightclub that was later cited for violating COVID-19 protocols. Approximately 500 people attended the concert, many of them not wearing masks or practicing social distancing.
Court orders Aftermath nightclub — scene of concert with 500 people — temporarily closed (Twitter)
