FOOD+NUTRITION By Jeff and Whitney Trotter
How COVID Has Impacted Communities of Color
And How We Can Move Forward
Communities of color are disproportionately affected by public health emergencies like COVID-19. The COVID Tracking Project estimates that African-Americans have died at 1.6 times the rate of white people in the United States. However, it’s more than that. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, social determinants of health include safe housing, transportation, racism, discrimination, violence, environmental hazards, and income. The pandemic’s effect on these has impacted the most vulnerable of Memphians.
Physical Wellbeing Communities of color have a much different experience when seeking to take care of their physical health. They can face discrimination, lack of access to culturally competent care, and perceived medical bias.
Spiritual, Mental & Emotional Health Communities of color often turn to religion to cope, find a sense of belonging, refuel emotionally, and get financial support. There are over 2,000 churches of many different faiths in the Mid-South! Given the risk of congregating in person, many people are struggling without a much needed support system. Stress has a major influence on overall health, and combined with complex trauma, it can contribute or be at the root of many health issues
Whitney Trotter is a registered dietitian, nurse, and certified yoga teacher. With Rachel Haaga, she helped cofound Restore Corps, an anti-trafficking organization. Whitney also is the owner/co-founder of Bluff City Health, a Memphis-based private practice focusing on nutrition and health for those with chronic disease, eating disorders, and disorder eating. Follow her @Whitneytrotter.rd or visit Whitneytrotter.com
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Jeff Trotter is a pastor at Hope Church Memphis and founder of the clothing brand, Bend Dxnt Break, which emphasizes the importance of prayer and social activism. Follow him on Instagram @bend_dxnt_break or visit Benddxntbreak.com
