The National Strategy for the COVID-19 Response and Pandemic Preparedness plan released by the Biden Administration this month explicitly includes refugee, immigrant and migrant (RIM) communities.
The plan states that in addition to structural inequality and structural racism, there are other aspects that drive COVID-19 inequities. "Refugees to the United States, especially those who are recently resettled, may experience living arrangements or working conditions that put them at greater risk of getting COVID-19," the plan states. "Some refugees also have limited access to health care, as well as certain underlying medical conditions that put them at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19, compared to the rest of the U.S. population."
And yet, the plan acknowledges that there is more to RIM communities than the disparities they face. "Millions of Americans, many of whom are people of color, immigrants, and low-wage workers, continue to put their lives on the line to keep the country functioning through the pandemic," it states. "They should not have to wonder whether they will make it home from work safely, or whether they will bring the virus to their loved ones or their communities."
The plan further advocates for increased testing for migrants and seasonal workers, as well as safe, effective and cost-free vaccines available to the entire public regardless of immigration status.
Read the full plan online.