A BROWN PAPER SOLUTION TO THE CORONAVIRUS REVELATIONS OF MANY DEAD BLACKS, LATINXS, AND FEW SAID DOCTORS

Abstract

This paper takes the form of a Brown Paper on the Coronavirus epidemic regarding the observed absence of Black and Latinx Doctors as media commentators, the disproportionately high death rates among members of these groups, and societal calls to address the cause of these enduring problems. This work attempts to explain the discrepancy involved through a hyper-quizzical and culturally sensitive exploration of anthropological, cultural, historical, societal, and other factors by using a multipronged and nonconventional approach. By exploring the manner in which racism possibly informs the problem, various mechanisms that inform success or failure in different Black and Latinx sub-groups were explored. They include (e.g., acting White or Black, individuals’ attitudes and perceptions, deficit thinking, child-rearing style, honorary Whites, immigration effect, model minority, parental involvement, racial grammar, and White privilege). The looming ascendancy of both groups to majority-minority population informs the urgency to confront the problem. Determination emerged that as the rising tides will lift all Americans’ boats, raising Blacks and Latinxs’ academic and technical competency will boost the nation’s capacity to compete in an increasingly globalized and high-tech world. It challenges the paradox related to Blacks and Latinxs’ boat of educational achievement remaining stationary, despite the many rising tides of educational reforms, laws, and massive expenditures. A “NEW NORMAL” fostering collaboration between Asians, Blacks from the diaspora, Latinxs, and progressive Whites is recommended to address the problem. Critically, the need to elevate medical professionals as STEM role models for Black and Latinx children, as opposed to current Black and Latino thespians (entertainment figures, sports stars, and rap artists) or gangsters, is also recommended.