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Reducing Discriminatory Practices as a Result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Crisis: A Call to Action

Writer's picture: Rohan JowallahRohan Jowallah


Two of the greatest challenges arising from this coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis are the increasing level of xenophobia and the lack of consideration for other humans. The emergence of COVID-19 in China in December 2019 has led to an increase in xenophobic incidents. For example, one student from Singapore was attacked in England and told by the group that they did not want coronavirus in their country (Haynes, 2020). Meanwhile, in Jamaica, a Chinese businessman was robbed and shot dead. The news release of the incident was posted on WhatsApp, which, unfortunately, led to someone commenting erroneously that the Chinese businessman was killed because he had the virus. In the USA, one man was video-recorded on a train being xenophobic towards an Asian American (Wu, 2020). These cases are not isolated — they represent an emerging trend that will create further rifts in societies, and that could take decades to overcome. Furthermore, the nature of these incidents suggests that immense efforts are needed for societies to understand the need for inclusion. Notwithstanding, we can all take a stand in reducing discriminatory practices that seek to isolate and ridicule others. 


For societies to become more inclusive, there is a need for agents of socialization to advocate for the use of inclusive language. After all, language is power. Consequently, language can be used to include, exclude, discriminate, and help in the eradication of negative discourses (Jowallah 2020). One must consider how their perceptions will influence their language use. Overall, agents of socialization can play their part in creating a pathway for inclusive language. The video below highlights the power of language within our society.

Apart from the use of inclusive language, it is also essential that we treat others the same way we would want to be treated. This will require us to be kind and caring to those in our society. Furthermore, emotional intelligence is a great asset. Emotional intelligence refers to our capability to manage our own emotions as well as the ability to be consciously aware of the feelings of those around us (Jowallah, 2020). Developing emotional intelligence will also create a pathway for understanding those around us. Finally, at this time, it may be necessary to advocate for others who are discriminated against. Consistently ignoring discrimination in our society can lead to the reproduction of discrimination.


In summary, “… negative words and covert actions aimed at the discrimination and exclusion of others can have a devastating effect on the physical health and psychological wellbeing of the victims” (Jowallah 2020 p.52). Below are a few tips to reduce discriminatory practices in our present context. These tips should also be applied consistently in our daily lives after the crisis. Doing so will engender a harmonious and inclusive society.



References


Haynes, S. (2020, March 06). As Coronavirus Spreads, So Does Xenophobia and Racism. Retrieved from https://time.com/5797836/coronavirus-racism-stereotypes-attacks/


Jowallah, R. (2020). Organizational Inclusivity: Critical reflection for inclusion [Kindle version]. Retrieved from https://www.amazon.ca/ORGANIZATIONAL-INCLUSIVITY-CRITICAL-REFLECTION-TRANSFORMATION-ebook/dp/B084Z53X2H


Wu, N. (2020, February 28). Asian American lawmakers denounce 'rumors' and 'xenophobia' about coronavirus. Retrieved from https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2020/02/28/coronavirus-asian-american-lawmakers-denounce-xenophobia-rumors/4901288002/

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