Hate is a health hazard, and unfortunately, hate incidents and hate crimes have been on the rise in the United States. They were increasing even before the COVID-19 pandemic, and, since the start of this health crisis, we have seen a jump in the number of hate incidents targeting Asian Americans.
In August, L.A. Care issued a Statement of Principles on Social Justice and Systemic Racism denouncing all forms of discrimination and bigotry, the result of hate. The statement outlined specific steps that L.A. Care would take to address racism, including the creation of an L.A. Care Equity Council, which would focus on equity issues both internally and externally.
Through the Equity Council, L.A. Care is happy to have joined the LA vs Hate coalition, which is joining the statewide United Against Hate Week campaign. The campaign, which runs from November 30 through December 6, will spread the word about 211, the hotline where Los Angeles County residents can report hate incidents – anonymously if needed. Reporting and tracking hate incidents are the best ways to determine where resources are needed to fight hate.
It is important for a health plan to stand up to hate since it is clear that hate is a threat to public health. Victims of hate incidents can suffer any number of immediate and long-term health consequences. Obviously, the emotional impact in itself is destructive, and can lead to serious mental health issues or substance use, which often lead to other health issues. At its worst, hate is manifested in physical aggression that can lead to serious injury or even death.
L.A. Care has always been committed to diversity, inclusion and the knowledge necessary to serve our members with respect and competence. We also hope to educate our members on ways they can help themselves and their communities fight the hate that can be so destructive.
L.A. Care will always stand up against any form of hate, bigotry and discrimination.