Who Am I?

My name is Ruby Widby. I’m 36 years old, born and raised in Compton, California. I’m the youngest of 7 children. I’m currently awaiting my acceptance into a nursing program at Compton College.

Who do I pretend to be?

I pretend that I’m doing good, even when I’m overwhelmed and my life feels like it’s spiraling out of control.

Who do people think I am?

I guess because I pretend everything is fine, everyone seems to think I have everything figured out and that I never need help. I don’t know how to speak up and set boundaries without fear of losing that person.

Who do I wish I could be?

I wish I was as strong as everyone thinks I am. I wish I could figure my whole life out,and guarantee a better future for me and my children.

How has race or ethnic identity played a role in any of these responses?

My background and culture have definitely influenced how I see myself and interact with others.

Theme 2: First Experience with Race Activity

What was your first experience with race?

I went to Florida to visit my siblings on my father’s side. We got lost while walking and ended up in a white neighborhood. An old lady ran out of her house and told us to get off of her grass and cursed and called us racial slurs.

How old were you?

I was 13 years old.

What emotions do you associate with the experience?

I was very scared and confused. Being in Compton around mostly African Americans I’ve never experienced anything like that before, and I haven’t been back out there since that experience.

Have you ever talked about the experience?

Yes, when we finally made it back to my stepmother house I told her. Then when I got back home I told my mother.

How have your early experiences with race shaped your worldview?

That experience has taught me to be more aware of my surroundings. Also, that everyone might not like me just because of the color of my skin.

Theme 3: Positive Sense of Self Brainstorm

I think having a positive sense of self and strong ethnic identity go hand-in-hand. When you feel good about yourself, you’re more likely to appreciate your cultural background. If someone struggles with self acceptance, it might be harder for them to feel proud of their heritage. But if you identify positively with your culture, like African-American psychology, you might have a stronger sense of self and feel more connected to your community. It’s all about embracing, who you are and being proud of your roots.

The idea of Ubuntu, which means “ I am because we are,” is an important part of many African cultures. It’s about recognizing that we are all connected and that our actions affect the people around us. I have seen many examples of Ubuntu in the African-American culture. Whether it’s a family dealing with a loss, or a community rallying for justice. My family and I lost my brother when he was just 17 years old. And the way the community came together to make sure we were ok and my brother’s killer came to justice was amazing. I will never forget that moment of respect, help, fullness, sharing, community, caring, trust, and unselfishness, all wrapped into one!

Theme 2: Concepts of Afrocentric Psychology

When I think about African-Americans, I believe the concept most present is spiritness. For many African-Americans, spirituality is a source of strength and comfort, especially during difficult times. I visited New Orleans a couple of times and that’s where I really felt spiritness from the African-American culture. From their music, to the spiritual practices, to the togetherness, and the food. I feel like the concept, most lacking in the culture now is veneration of the person. The respect that the younger generation used to have for their elders are gone. They can’t pass down cultural traditions, stories, and values to younger generations like they used to.

Theme 3: Principles of Nguzo Saba

Umoja is about striving for and maintaining unity. This principle resonates deeply because unity is essential for collective progression and empowerment. Individuals and communities come together with resources, share knowledge, and support one another in ways that uplift. I recently attended a nonprofit back-to-school event where I had the honor of being one of the braiders. We serviced so many children and made a lot of parents happy. The community came together and made sure those children went to school happy and ready to learn.

#1) Within the category of Natal Measures , I chose birthplace of self, because I feel like this played a role in how I identify. Growing up in Compton, California, was a defining experience for me. Being surrounded by a community that was predominantly African-American, with a few Hispanic family scattered in, shaped my perspective on identity and culture. It wasn’t until I started school that I began to realize the diversity that existed beyond my neighborhood. This influenced how I see myself and my place in the world.

#2) Within The category of Behavioral Measures, I chose music and food, because it is a huge part of my culture that I connect with. For music, I love, listening to hip-hop, R&B, and gospel. They are not just entertaining, but they also tell stories of experiences and struggles of Black people. As for food, traditional dishes like fried chicken, collard greens, and cornbread are more than just comfort food. They are often tied to family gatherings.

#3) Within the category of Subjective Measures, I chose role models and preferred reference groups, because I look up to people like Martin Luther King Jr., Maya, Angelou, and Chadwick Boseman. They are influential figures in the African-American community, who made a lasting impact throughout their work and activism. As for preferred reference groups, I’m drawn to communities and organizations that prioritize uplifting and empowering Black people.

#4) Within the category of Situation-Contextual Measures, I chose Home-Family and Community, because they are crucial and shaping my ethnic identity. My family would often have Sunday dinners together. Where we would share stories, cook, traditional meals, and the elders would pass down traditions and recipes with the younger generation. In my community, I attended church services, this gave me a sense of belonging to a larger community. This gave me a strong foundation to build upon.

3.2 Multigroup Ethnic Identity Measure ( MEIM)

#1) My Multigroup Ethnic Identity Measure score is 39.

#2) This score may suggest that I have somewhat of a strong sense of connection and pride in my African-American ethnic group.

#3) I feel a deep sense of belonging, commitment, and positive feelings towards my ethnic identity. I have a strong sense of community, and value my cultural traditions. I feel a strong bond with others who share similar backgrounds and experiences.

#4) nothing really surprise me about this score.

3.3 Rosenberg’s Self-Esteem Scale

#1) My score on the Rosenberg’s Self-Esteem scale is 25.

#2) This indicates that I am within normal range of self-esteem. I usually have pretty balanced views of myself. I’m not overly critical, but I’m also not overly confident. I’m able to handle everyday situations with a reasonable amount of confidence and self acceptance.

#3) I Believe having a normal range of self-esteem helps me navigate life ups and downs without getting too caught up in negative self-talk or unrealistic expectations.

3.4 Racial Identity Development

#1) I believe that I am in the Immersion/ Emersion stage.

#2) I feel like I’m in this phase because I am actively seeking out experiences and knowledge that helps me understand and connect with my racial identity. An example would be me joining this course. I’m surrounding myself with people and environments that share similar values and experiences.

#3) I know I passed All the previous stages because the Dissonance stage was like a wake-up call for me. I remember feeling uncomfortable and uncertain about my racial identity. I had always thought that being African-American wasn’t a big deal, but then I experienced something that made me realize that others saw me differently. Looking back, I can see that this was a sign that I was moving towards exploration of my racial identity, which ultimately led me to the Immersion/ Emersion stage i’m in now.

#4) One thing that I’ve learned from this process is the importance of embracing and celebrating my cultural heritage.

3.5 Find Your Racial Identity Resource

The resource I chose is https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/147275/a-litany-for-survival this poem is a testament to the strength and resilience of marginalized communities

2. From the chapter reading, do you think that we live in a post-racial society? Please state why why not.

   No, I don’t believe we live in a post-racial society. It’s very evident that we do not based on the criminal justice system, economic inequalities, healthcare disparities, education and housing segregation. I feel like a lot has changed, but we will always have issues that need to be addressed. The idea of post racial society distracts from ongoing issues and prevents meaningful change.

3. What is your personal definition of race and do you think that race is a social construct, a biological construct or something else? Please explain your reasoning.

   Growing up, I never really thought about what race meant to me. Being in this course I realized it’s about more than just how I look or where my family comes from. While these traits (skin color, hair texture, and facial features) have some biological basis, the meaning and importance attached to them comes from society, not biology itself. I used to think that race was a real thing, but it isn’t real. It’s a social construct, made up to justify how one race of people are treated and discriminated against.

4. Search and find one resource regarding race being a social or biological concept and post it to your Padlet. State its significance and if you agree or disagree with the resource based on your definition of race.

   Resource: The article I chose “ New AMA policies recognize race as a social, not biological construct” by the American Medical Association,2020. This article states that race is Not a biological fact, but a social idea.

   Significance: This matters because for many years people thought race was based in science and genetics. The AMA explains that race is shaped by things like racism, unfair, treatment, and history, not by biology.

   Explain: I agree with this article because in my own view, race is not about science, but about how society gives meaning to certain traits.

5. State one thing that you’ve learned or one thing that stood out to you from the unit:

   what stood out to me is that most African-Americans have experience racism and may not be aware. I know that I probably experience more racism than I’m aware of. It can be pervasive and often subtle, making it difficult to recognize. This can be due to micro-aggression, systemic racism, and implicit bias.

1) From the reading, what do you think makes the Black family unique? Please provide descriptive examples.

Black families are unique because they are built on strong kinship bonds and a rich cultural heritage. Black families consist of extended family, immediate family, augmented family, and fictive kin. This network of family provides support, and traditions that bring people together. Despite challenges Black families have developed resilience and coping mechanisms to help each other through trying times. When I was younger I had a lot of adults in my life that I would call aunt or uncle, only to grow up and find out that they were people from my neighborhood that would just look out for me and my siblings because it was just us and our mom. They really became family to us and they still are to this day.

2) What do you think are the strengths and challenges of the black family? Please state why you think so and provide examples.

I believe strength of the Black family include survival and support. Black families have always relied on each other and their communities to overcome all the obstacles they’ve been faced with. My mom has always had a great community of people that she relied on to help raise us. I remember my aunts coming to take us shopping, my uncle teaching us to swim, even the neighbors watching us while we played outside. We had the best support system. One of the challenges in the Black family is lack of equal opportunity. This comes from not having the same job opportunities, affordable, housing, and healthcare as everyone else. It’s harder for Blacks to build generational wealth and achieve stability.

3) how do concepts such as racial socialization affect parents and children in Black families? Please explain.

Racial socialization helps parents prepare their children for potential racism, teaching them about their heritage, and encouraging resilience and self-esteem to help them function in society. My mom used to always tell my brother, “You already have two strikes against you. You’re black, and you’re a male.” Raising young man in Compton has to be one of the scariest things for a parent. You really have to help them develop a positive sense of self and prepare for challenges they may encounter.

4) based on our reading, what factors do you think have impacted Black families the most since slavery and why?

I think the lack of family stability has impacted us the most. One reason why is because they separated the men from the homes and created broken homes. Then they introduced welfare and created programs such as the man–in–the-house rule. They wouldn’t provide assistance if there was a man in the household. Even though I believe this law has changed, this made woman scared to let their child’s father live with them. Most families became dependent on welfare and did not achieve self-sufficiency.

5) Resource: “The Unapologetically Black Tradition of Expanding the Definition of Family” by Meadows-Fernandez,2024.

1) This article highlights the tradition of expanding the definition of family beyond biological ties.

2) Black families were forced to rely on each other in their communities for survival and support.

3) This helped black family structures foster resilience, community solidarity, and a sense of belonging.

6) State one thing that you learned or one thing that stood out to you from the unit required reading. State its significance.

What stood out from this unit is that children who live with their mothers only are much more likely to be poor. There is a higher school dropout rate, and daughters are more at risk of teen pregnancy. My mother did the best she could with her children, and even with the help of extended family I still became a teen mom and had to put my schooling on hold for a while. Now I’m a single mother and I pray my children have a better outcome than I had.

STEM has a major diversity issue. African-Americans and Hispanics make up 26% of the US, but only 11% of the Science and Engineering workforce. Most high schools that serve predominantly African-American students does not offer STEM coursework. So when they get to college, they have to take many remedial courses, and this can be very discouraging. Imposter syndrome is also a factor, African-Americans don’t feel as equal or deserving, they begin to doubt if they are smart enough. Another reason is stereotype threats, with a lack of representation in STEM fields, this can discourage students from pursuing stem those types of careers.

2) What role do teachers play in shaping the expectations of students and fostering the interest of students in STEM education classes?

I believe that when students have positive reinforcement from their teachers, they succeed more in school. To know that someone believes in you can really boost your confidence.

3) How do you think the implicit bias of educators affects minority students who express interest in the subjects?

Some teachers are unaware of their implicit bias towards students. The students are aware that they are being treated differently. This can lead to lower academic performance and decreased interest in STEM.

4) How does this information contribute to the Imposter Phenomenon in the educational system and in the workplace for African-Americans?

This contributes to the Imposter Phenomenon because African-Americans feel like they need to change to fit in, or work twice as hard for equal pay. They are often scared to speak up because of fear of being seen as troublesome. They start to doubt if they belong in certain fields, and often don’t feel worthy of the opportunity.

5) State one strategy that you think could be implemented to counter the struggles identified in the video and reading.

One strategy could be to pair African-American students with STEM professionals who share similar backgrounds, or have demonstrated commitment to supporting disadvantaged students.

6) State one thing that you learned or one thing that stood out to you from the unit required reading, optional reading or audio material in this unit.

One thing that I’ve learned is to never compare myself to other people, and never let someone else’s implicit bias make me doubt myself.

I believe experiencing subconscious racial slides can lead to stress, anxiety, self-doubt, confusion, and often health issues. Most of The time the person of color is left confused about the encounter, so they don’t know how to react. This leads to these symptoms and more.

2) What stereotypes are perpetuated when racial microaggressions are thrown around towards a person of color?

One stereotype is that we are not educated or articulate. Another is that we are criminals and are always up to no good. I would also like to add the stereotype that we are overly sensitive and offended by everything.

3) Considering Intersectionality, what other issues does this theme affect in the African-American community?

Many issues affect African-Americans, but society makes you feel like you have to pick one issue over the other, it can’t be both. We as African-Americans know that’s not true. We are treated unfairly based on race, gender, and even the class they put us in. These issues more than often overlap, creating social injustice. We see it in our educational system, workplace, with police brutality, and even in the healthcare system.

4) State how these theories of intersectionality, racial microaggressions, bias or white privilege affects one’s understanding of “sense of self” or ethnic identity?

These experiences can lead to questioning of your self-worth, identity, and sense of belonging. Imagine someone telling you that “ You’re really articulate for a person of your background” or asking “ Where are you really from?” These questions can make you question you’re belonging, your intelligence, and you’re worth. It’s like being in a constant battle to prove yourself. No matter how much you achieve you always feel one step behind in the eyes of others.

5) Search online for a resource that helps you understand this topic more and post it to your padlet. State why the resource shines some light on a perspective of this issue.

The resource I chose was https://www.aauw.org/app/uploads/2020/11/Sue-Alsaidi-et-al.-2019-copy.pdf . This article focuses on addressing microaggression. It empowers the targets of microaggression and allies to take action and challenge these forms of bias. This article really resonated with me because it talks about how subtle forms of bias can have an extreme impact on people of color. I’ve seen firsthand how these microaggressions can lead to feelings of invalidation and exclusion. What I found most helpful in this article is the strategies for addressing microaggression.

6) State a strategy that you feel can be successful to address the use of microaggressions especially when the offender is unaware of how their reactions affect people of color.

One strategy could be to help the person understand the impact of their behavior without becoming defensive. I would usually respond without considering if that person is aware of their actions or not. I never really considered that they could actually be acting subconsciously. Now that I have a better understanding of microaggression, I don’t have to stoop down to the level of others. I could tell them how I feel, and hope that we can have a respectful conversation about it.

7) State one thing that you learned are one thing that stood out to you from the unit required reading, optional reading or audio material in this unit.

One thing that stood out to me is that African-American woman are forced to pick a challenge in life, even when multiple things are against them at once. They often face multiple challenges, such as racism and sexism, which can make it difficult to navigate every day life. For instance, a black woman might be overlooked for a promotion at work due to racial bias, and then face sex is comments or expectations from her colleagues. This intersection of multiple forms of oppression can lead to feelings of frustration and exclusion.

Black neighborhoods and communities are strong because of the people who live there. They are kind, talented, and work hard. Many people in these communities are good friends and help each other out. They also have a rich culture and history that they celebrate and share with others.

2. WEAKNESSES: What are the weaknesses of Black neighborhoods and communities and state one solution to an issue you have raised?
Some challenges that Black neighborhoods and communities face include not having enough resources, like good schools and safe places to play. Some people might also not have enough money to buy the things they need. One way to help solve these problems is for community members to work together and support each other.

3. OPPORTUNITIES: What are three ways in which Black neighborhoods and communities could play a role in the progressive movement of the Black community?

Black neighborhoods and communities can make a positive difference by helping each other out, starting businesses, and celebrating their culture. When people work together, they can make their community a better place to live. By starting businesses, they can create jobs and opportunities for others. Celebrating their culture can also help people learn about and appreciate the community's history and traditions.

4. THREATS: What are three ways in which Black neighborhoods and communities could have a detrimental effect on the progressive movement of the Black community?

Some things that could hurt Black neighborhoods and communities include people not getting along, stereotypes and biases, and not having access to good education and opportunities. When people don't get along, it can be hard to work together to solve problems. Stereotypes and biases can also make it harder for people to get the opportunities they deserve.

5. Find one resource that helps us understand these themes.

9 Historic Black Neighborhoods That Celebrate Black Excellence | National Trust for Historic Preservation

6. State one thing that you learned or one thing that stood out to you from the unit. 

One thing I learned is that there was a practice called redlining where banks wouldn't give loans to people in certain neighborhoods just because of the color of their skin. This made it hard for people in those neighborhoods to buy homes and build wealth. It's not fair and has had a lasting impact on many communities.

From this unit's readings, I gained a deeper understanding of how systemic issues such as discrimination, economic disparities, and societal expectations play a significant role in shaping interpersonal and close relationships within the Black community. These factors can lead to challenges like limited partner choices, relationship stress, and identity formation issues. It's clear that these complexities affect Black males and females in their relationships, and understanding these dynamics is crucial for building stronger, more supportive communities.

2. How do long-standing stereotypes in the media of African-American females being portrayed as property (i.e in rap videos etc.) affect the psyche of those seeing these images and the African-American woman’s dating prospects?

The way African American females are portrayed in the media, often being depicted as property, can have severe consequences. These stereotypes can negatively impact the self-perception of both the viewers and the women being portrayed. For the women, it can lead to internalized racism, low self-esteem, and difficulties in forming healthy relationships. For the audience, it perpetuates harmful biases and reinforces systemic inequalities, which can ultimately affect the African American woman's dating prospects and overall well-being.

3. What factors are contributing to the rising number of single Black unmarried females?

There are several factors contributing to the rising number of single Black unmarried females. One major factor is the educational and economic disparities that exist within the community. Limited partner choices, often due to factors like incarceration and educational disparities, also play a significant role. Additionally, changing societal expectations have led many to prioritize personal fulfillment over marriage, which can be a positive shift but also presents challenges in forming long-term commitments.

4. Why is there a stigma in the African-American community against the LGBTQ community? The stigma against the LGBTQ community in the African American community is multifaceted, stemming from a combination of cultural, religious, and historical factors. Many people view LGBTQ identities as conflicting with traditional religious beliefs or cultural norms, which can lead to discrimination and marginalization. This stigma not only affects individuals within the LGBTQ community but also has broader implications for the community as a whole, highlighting the need for greater understanding and acceptance.

5. Find one resource that helps you understand these themes. State the resources’ significance to this unit’s material.

https://www.youtube.com/live/4vQ90k84o-U?si=Egyb4Qnto5HZpeDw

The resource I chose explores the complexity of self-identity, personal growth, and how people interact within their communities. It emphasizes the significance of self-motivation and taking charge of one's life when faced with societal pressures and expectations. The discussion about comparisons highlights the difficulties of balancing different aspects of one's identity and how outside influences can affect personal relationships. In the context of our unit on relationships within the African American community, this resource provides important perspectives on how societal norms and expectations can influence individual experiences. It also highlights the value of empathy and understanding in fostering strong, supportive relationships. By discussing these complex issues, we can develop a deeper understanding of the diverse experiences and viewpoints that exist within our own communities and beyond.

Standard American English is the kind of English we use in school and in formal situations. It's like the English you learn in textbooks and from teachers. African American Vernacular English, also called Ebonics, is a different way of speaking that some people use at home or with friends. It's like a special dialect that has its own rules and words. Just like how different people have different favorite foods or clothes, different people also have different ways of speaking.

2. How is speaking in Ebonics/African American Vernacular English in the educational classroom traditionally viewed?

Some people might think that speaking in Ebonics or African American Vernacular English is not as good as speaking in Standard American English. They might think it's not proper or correct. But that's not true! Ebonics is a valid and important part of many people's culture and identity. It's like having a special secret language that only some people understand. However, some teachers might not understand Ebonics as well, which can make it hard for students who speak it.

3. How can the strengths of dual language speakers be utilized to empower students in the classroom?

When teachers understand and appreciate the different ways students speak, it can help students feel more confident and empowered. One way to do this is by celebrating different languages and dialects. Teachers can learn about and appreciate the different languages and dialects that students speak. This can help students feel proud of their heritage and culture. Also, by using diverse teaching materials. Teachers can use books, videos, and other materials that show people speaking different languages and dialects. This can help students see themselves reflected in the classroom and feel more included. Lastly, by encouraging students to share their language. Teachers can ask students to share their language and culture with the class. This can help students feel proud of who they are and where they come from.

4. Search online for a resource that helps you understand this topic more. State why the resource shines some light on a perspective of this issue.

https://youtu.be/Hw25n4Ehs4o?si=FOQInt3K69ctF8XU

This video is really helpful because it explains a big part of African American Vernacular English, which is called zero copula. It shows how sometimes "is" and "are" aren't always used in sentences. The examples they give are really good, and the funny sketches make it more fun to learn.

5. State one strategy that you think could be implemented to counter the negative stereotypes associated with speaking Ebonics or African American Vernacular English as identified in the video and reading. 

When we use books and stories that reflect the way students speak at home, it can make them feel proud of their language and culture. Imagine reading a book that talks about someone who sounds just like you or talks about things you've experienced. It's like seeing yourself in the story. Teachers can help students feel seen and heard by including books and stories that use Ebonics or African American Vernacular English in the classroom. This can help break down stereotypes and show everyone that all languages are valuable and important. By celebrating the different ways we speak, we can create a more inclusive and supportive classroom community.

6. State one thing that you learned or one thing that stood out to you from the unit.

One thing that really stood out to me is how important it is for teachers to appreciate the different ways their students talk. When teachers understand and value the way their students speak at home, it can make a big difference. Students feel seen and heard, and they're more likely to feel comfortable and confident in class. It's really cool to think about how teachers can use this to create a classroom where everyone feels welcome and supported.

The Yoruba Orisha faith, also known as Santeria, is a spiritual tradition from West Africa, specifically Nigeria. It's a unique blend of traditional African spirituality, cultural identity, and community, helping people connect with their ancestral heritage and find meaning in life. The faith revolves around Orishas, divine beings governing aspects of life like health, wealth, and love.

2. How does this faith provide a connection back to Africa for those African Americans choosing to join the faith?

For African Americans, the Yoruba Orisha faith provides a powerful connection to their African roots, allowing them to reclaim their cultural heritage and find a sense of belonging. By embracing Yoruba traditions, they can reconnect with their ancestral past and gain a deeper understanding of themselves, fostering pride and identity.

3. How does the Yoruba faith treat health and healing in their religion?

In Yoruba faith, health and healing are deeply intertwined with spirituality. Practitioners believe illnesses can be caused by spiritual imbalances, neglect of Orishas, or malevolent forces. Yoruba healers use herbal remedies, rituals, and spiritual practices to restore balance and harmony, emphasizing the importance of overall wellness.

4. Resource

https://youtu.be/7eqKC4DcLm0?si=L-19US5m4RZWfswk

The most important thing I learned is the Yoruba Orisha faith is not just a religion, but a way of life that connects people with their heritage, community, and the divine. It emphasizes the importance of balance, harmony, and relationships. And it offers a holistic approach to health, wellness, and spirituality.

5. State one thing that you learned or one thing that stood out to you.

The emphasis on community and social support in Yoruba faith is remarkable, recognizing individuals as part of a larger community and highlighting the importance of building strong connections with others.

African American women often don't get the same amount of pain medication as other women in the hospital. This is because of something called "unconscious bias" or "racism in healthcare." This means that some doctors and nurses might not believe African American women when they say they're in pain, or they might think they're being dramatic. This is not fair and it's not okay.

2. What factors are contributing to the disproportionate number of African American infants who die in childbirth and African American mothers who die in childbirth?

There are many reasons why African American babies and mothers are more likely to die in childbirth. One reason is that African American women often don't get the best healthcare. They might not have access to good hospitals or doctors, and they might not have enough money to pay for care. Another reason is that stress and racism can make their bodies wear out faster, which can lead to problems during pregnancy.

3.What are some solutions that can be implemented to improve the experiences of African American mothers giving birth and African American infant survival rates?

There are many things we can do to help African American mothers and babies. One thing is to make sure all women have access to good healthcare, no matter where they live or how much money they have. Another thing is to teach doctors and nurses about unconscious bias and how to take all patients seriously. We can also support organizations that help African American families and provide resources for pregnant women.

4. Find a resource that that helps you understand this theme.

https://youtu.be/AODAk-accVc?si=xxnQ5yPGbUtNZY1b

5. State one thing that you learned or one thing that stood out to you.

One thing that stood out to me is how much stress and racism can affect a person's body. It's not just about being "strong" or "weak" - it's about the real physical effects of living in a world where you're treated unfairly. This is something we should all think about and work to change.

African Americans face higher COVID-19 rates because they often don't have access to good healthcare, and they might have other health problems like diabetes or heart disease. They also might not have a lot of money or resources to help them stay healthy.

2. How are the mistrust of the health care system and the general distrust of medical doctors during the time of COVID19 affecting the African American community?

When people don't trust doctors or hospitals, they might not go get help when they're sick. This makes it harder for them to get better and can even make them more likely to spread the illness to others. For African Americans, this mistrust is often because of bad experiences they've had in the past, like the Tuskegee syphilis experiment.

3. State THREE strategies that you feel can address the issues raised in questions one and two.

We can have community leaders and organizations help spread the word about COVID-19 and how to stay safe. We can also make sure doctors and nurses are trained to understand and respect different cultures. Lastly, we can work to make sure everyone has access to good healthcare and resources, no matter their skin color or income.

4. Here's a resource that can help us understand this topic more:

Trends in Racial and Ethnic Disparities in COVID-19 Hospitalizations, by Region — United States, March–December 2020 | MMWR

5. State one thing that you learned or one thing that stood out to you.

One thing I learned is that the Tuskegee syphilis experiment was a real event that happened in the United States, and it's a big reason why many African Americans don't trust doctors and hospitals today.