Our youths of color need support more than ever. According to an overview by the authors Metzger, Anderson, Are & Ritchwood (2021): Past research has shown that 38% of African Americans ages 13–18 years experienced six incidents of racism in a year (Sellers et al., 2003) The latest research demonstrates that this has risen to one occurrence every day due to the proliferation of prejudiced social media (English & Papa, 2020). Additionally, nearly 65% of African American youth report traumatic experiences compared to 30% of their peers from other races (Finkelhor et al., 2013). They are more likely to report adverse emotional and behavioral effects of trauma exposure, including poor mental health & risky substance & sexual behavior (Andrews et al., 2015; Roberts et al., 2011). Disproportionate rates of trauma & negative outcomes are tied to racism-related stressors (Tynes et al., 2019).
In 2020, the use of force by authorities increased 6x relative to 2019 against protesters, the large majority of whom were peacefully marching for Black Lives Matter. Overall, an increase in hate crimes remains a widespread threat, with attacks targeting a range of minority groups in and outside the context of the BLM movement (The Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project, 2021). Our youths have been watching.
According to Human Rights Watch (2021): Covid-19 has had an increased impact on racial and ethnic minorities, predominantly the Black, Latin, and Native American populations, who have experienced an increased risk of infection, serious illnesses, and higher mortality. Coupled with severe economic impacts, the disparities are connected to long-standing imbalances in health outcomes, access to services, education, employment, & economic standing.
The attached research-supported resilience brief can be used to help strengthen youths during these difficult times as we end Black History Month.
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