What is important for Black and Brown people to consider when thinking about whether to be vaccinated?
The science is two decades in the making, no steps were skipped. People need to know Black and Brown people were part of the research so we could see ourselves in the trials. There are scientists who look like us who were part of the design and development of the vaccine, the same is true for those reviewing the evidence and making recommendations to the FDA and CDC. People have been getting vaccinated since childhood, don’t let people put ideas in your head now about vaccines. We have to make our choice, the vaccine or the virus, and I don’t want people to gamble with the virus.
What would you say to the community about how to better advocate for their health?
Let’s own this now. We need to demand that we get the health care in our communities to keep ourselves safe. So many provide opportunities to connect people with a medical home, an ongoing clinician to have a relationship with. So the vaccine is the first step to saying we’re here to engage and become a partner in your health.
How would you advise people to approach their life post-pandemic?
Show up, bring your whole self, and speak your truth.
What COVID-19 protocols do you recommend people follow right now?
Always keep on top of your local guidance for wearing a mask. Bottom line, if you’re not vaccinated keep the mask on, though if fully vaccinated the evidence is strong that you will be well protected.
