New Data Show Black Chicagoans Diagnosed And Dying At Higher Rates Than Other Races

Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) today released demographic data for those diagnosed with COVID-19 in Chicago, as well as statistics showing how the virus has spread throughout the city. While the data gathered by CDPH includes only known cases of COVID-19 confirmed by testing, the figures clearly show great inequities in sickness and death by race and ethnicity. Guided by this data, the City will launch a hyper-focused strategy centered around deep, consistent education and outreach to communities most adversely impacted by COVID-19. The City will partner with West Side United, who is stepping up to convene and activate a racial equity rapid response team, in reaching vulnerable populations in the city’s most impacted communities to build greater equity in health outcomes – both in the short and long terms.

“This new data offers a deeply concerning glimpse into the spread of COVID-19 and is a stark reminder of the deep-seated issues which have long created disparate health impacts in communities across Chicago,” said Mayor Lightfoot. “While this data is extremely troubling, we are determined to lessen the impact of COVID-19 by engaging communities that have traditionally been overlooked and that have suffered disinvestment and neglect for generations. Data and science have been a critical tool in our public health response to COVID-19 from day one, and we will continue to rely on them to move resources where they are needed most. We know that our residents’ health is impacted by a number of factors, and we will also be taking a critical look at ways we can ensure that every Chicagoan has the opportunities and resources necessary to maximize their health and well-being.”