Addressing Racism: AAPI Community's Struggles and Healthcare Inequities
So there's no doubt, I think, that the conversation and action around racism has become so prominent over The Past Year, but specifically with the covid pandemic, it led to Asian Americans being so harassed and attacked and often blamed, and it feels like it hasn't been as widely discussed until recently.
Imagine facing over 6,000 hate incidents in just a year. That’s the reality for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) since the pandemic began. In this episode of 'Charged', a panel dives deep into the history of racism against the AAPI community and how COVID-19 has only made things worse. From verbal harassment to physical attacks, the discussion covers it all. But why has this group been so often left out of conversations about racial equality?
The experts break down the institutional biases that have long plagued healthcare, making it clear that the model minority myth has done more harm than good. They also shed light on the lack of emotional and mental health support for AAPI families, a topic that's rarely addressed. The episode doesn’t just stop at identifying problems; it also looks at solutions.
The panel emphasizes the need for AAPI inclusion in research and leadership roles, arguing that equitable healthcare systems can't be built without it. They also touch on the unique challenges faced by international AAPI students, who often find themselves isolated and unsupported. As the conversation wraps up, there's a strong call to action: it's time to mobilize and tackle these systemic barriers head-on.
If you're looking to understand the real issues and find ways to contribute to change, this episode is a must-listen.