Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)'s impact has similar characteristics to racism and its effects. First, there is no known immunity to COVID-19 or racism. Second, we wear uncomfortable masks to protect us from the virus. Being black in America requires wearing an uncomfortable invisible mask, hiding anxiety and fear. Third, physical distancing is promoted to reduce COVID-19 transmission. With racism, physical distancing has occurred from the Atlantic Slave Trade to segregation and redlining. COVID-19 has punished communities of color, just like racism has. COVID-19 has suffocated America just like racism does to blacks. If America is tired of COVID-19, imagine how blacks feel.
Keywords: African American; COVID-19; racism.
© Elizabeth A. Brown, 2020; Published by Mary Ann Liebert, Inc.