Whiteness in the time of COVID: Australia's health services still leaving vulnerable communities behind
[Extact] Due to the ongoing effects of colonisation, First Nations peoples often experience socio-economic disadvantage and health inequality. The pandemic has no doubt worsened these conditions for some. In addition, the health of Australia’s First Nations peoples is framed in a deficit focus. This...
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| Format: | Article in Journal/Newspaper |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
2021
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| Online Access: | https://research.bond.edu.au/en/publications/301a9721-1726-40b2-9226-1d38868682c6 https://theconversation.com/whiteness-in-the-time-of-covid-australias-health-services-still-leaving-vulnerable-communities-behind-167701#comment_2612210 |
| Summary: | [Extact] Due to the ongoing effects of colonisation, First Nations peoples often experience socio-economic disadvantage and health inequality. The pandemic has no doubt worsened these conditions for some. In addition, the health of Australia’s First Nations peoples is framed in a deficit focus. This means representing First Nations people through a narrative of difference, disparity, disadvantage, dysfunction, and deprivation, what is sometimes referred to as the 5Ds. Viewing First Nations peoples through a deficit or negative lens is a form of racial segregation. However, this practice of white privilege or “whiteness” in health services can only cause harm to marginalised communities. For instance, COVID-19 is more common in disadvantaged areas, where people face a triple threat – low vaccination rates, greater likelihood of getting COVID-19, and greater risk of dying. |
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