Navigating COVID-19: Utah's Multicultural Communities Face Unique Challenges
We really have to dig deeper into the systemic inequities. Language access was talked about before, but I think that during this pandemic, their inequities have also risen to the top, and we talk about digital literacy and access to the internet and so forth.
Picture this: You're in the middle of a global pandemic, and on top of the usual stress, you’re also grappling with language barriers, higher contagion rates, and limited access to digital resources. This is the reality for many multicultural communities in Utah. In this episode of 'Healthy Mind Matters', Maria Shilaos sits down with Nubia Pena, Byron Russell, and Ximen Cao from Utah's COVID task force to discuss these unique struggles.
The conversation dives into the systemic issues that have been magnified by the pandemic, such as digital illiteracy and lack of internet access. These challenges make it harder for these communities to stay informed and connected. Ximen Cao highlights the need to address these deep-rooted inequities, stating, "we really have to dig deeper into the systemic inequities". The episode doesn't just focus on the problems; it also offers solutions.
The experts emphasize the importance of providing culturally relevant and linguistically appropriate services. They discuss how mental health has been impacted, especially for those who have experienced the refugee or immigrant journey. By the end of the episode, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of what these communities are going through and what can be done to help. Whether it's offering support or simply becoming more aware of these issues, this episode is a call to action for everyone.
So, if you’re curious about how COVID-19 has uniquely affected Utah’s multicultural communities and want to know how you can make a difference, this episode is a must-listen.