To watch the full video, click here. "Racial disparities are certainty not new, but have been magnified during this pandemic both in health outcomes and in economic impacts. The COVID-19 pandemic has been particularly harmful for communities of color and cannot go un-addressed," said Congressman Hoyer. "I was glad to join Rep. Brown and Rep. Underwood this past weekend to draw attention to the importance of eliminating racial disparities in health care during the annual 41st Black History Month Breakfast, and will continue to put addressing health equity into greater focus in Washington. For my constituents in Maryland's Fifth District, overcoming this pandemic means ensuring that we do not go back to how things were, but create a more equitable, inclusive, and just — so that Maryland delivers on behalf of communities that have been left out for too long." "Black History Month is about honoring our past and looking toward the future. We recognize the heroes who fought for equal rights and justice, in Maryland and around the country. And we recommit ourselves to the work ahead to bridge the gaps and inequities in our communities to ensure Black Americans have the resources and opportunities needed to get ahead," said Congressman Anthony Brown. "Black Americans were particularly harmed by the COVID-19 pandemic, facing higher rates of infection, death, and economic hardship. As we work to recover and ensure no one is left behind, we need to build stronger, more resilient communities that advance equity and justice for all." "I've personally seen how much work needs to be done to address the health inequities facing Black communities that existed long before COVID-19 and have worsened significantly throughout this pandemic," said Congresswoman Underwood. "We must act now to address these unacceptable disparities, which is why I have worked so hard alongside Leader Hoyer to advance legislation, like my Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act, to save lives and advance equity. I was honored to join Leader Hoyer's Annual Black History Month Breakfast to discuss these critical issues impacting Black Americans across the country." ### |