The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is not colorblind. Data detailing who’s getting sick and who’s dying makes it abundantly clear: the virus is having a greater impact on Latinx Coloradans than others. Our April 2020 survey of 1,100 Coloradans, conducted in partnership with Healthier Colorado and Magellan Strategies, underscores the disproportionate negative effects that Latinx Coloradans are weathering.
We’ve highlighted a few snapshots from the survey data that reveal this reality. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Since the start of the coronavirus outbreak, 45% of Latinx Coloradans are struggling to pay for the basic necessities of life – like food, housing and utilities.
That’s up from 28% before the virus hit, and 12% higher than respondents who aren’t Latinx. For many, financial constraints are sparking fear:
“I have become extremely depressed since the outbreak due to loss of financial funds and being unsure of where I’ll get money for food.” – Female, 18-29 years of age, Larimer County
- “I was laid off about 2 weeks ago. I am worried about finding a job.” – Male, 35-39 years of age, Larimer County
- “I’m worried about the economic fall-out.” – Female, 40-44 years of age, Weld County
2. Latinx Coloradans are more likely to worry about the virus’ impacts on community health.
For example, 84% of Latinx folks are worried that essential workers don’t have protective equipment (compared to 76% of all respondents). Sixty-eight percent of Latinx people are worried local hospitals will run out of necessary equipment like beds or ventilators (compared to 60% of all respondents).
- “It is sad to say that hospitals are being overloaded. I am worried about health care's availability and controlling the spread.” – Male, 30-34 years of age, Pueblo County
- “I still have to work because I'm part of the essential team, but everyone not wearing gloves or a mask and not being 6 feet apart is worrying me because I'm trying to keep my family safe when I get home from work.” – Female, 40-44 years of age, Denver County
3. Nearly three-quarters of Latinx Coloradans want the government to do more to support public health.
Seventy-four percent want more assistance for those who are struggling to pay their rent or mortgage. 73% want more to be done to make health care more affordable. Seventy percent want more assistance for people who are homeless and people who can’t afford food.
- “I feel stressed out because I never know if any of us would get sick at any time. Now when we go grocery shopping, I do it as fast as I can so we can go back home. I don't want to get out of the house and worry a lot when my child has to go to work. I'm afraid that all this is not going to end any time soon and everyone’s lives has changed forever.” – Female, 55-59 years of age, El Paso County
- “My preexisting mental health conditions are much worse. My suicidal tendency is high compared to normal.” – Identifies differently from male or female, 18-29 years of age, Broomfield County
The data show that many Latinx Coloradans are suffering, and yet because this survey was only conducted in English, we know we’ve only scratched the surface as we seek to better understand that pain. While we have much to learn about how Latinx people are experiencing this crisis, what we already know calls us to action. As we make plans to support recovery efforts, we must ensure the needs of Latinx people are at the forefront.
Learn more about the survey and its key findings, and check out other blog posts highlighting the experiences of Coloradans living on low incomes and Black/African American Coloradans.