Ohio Governor Mike DeWine says racism is a public health crisis, and he's challenging all aspects of state government to address disparities.
His response comes after a task force examined how COVID-19 is disproportionately impacting people of color. Ohio Public Radio's Andy Chow reports.
The minority health strike force identified dozens of issues to address disparities when it comes to health issues for people of color, known as social determinants of health.
DeWine says there are many causes for the lack of equity, including systemic racism.
DeWine: "We have an obligation to look at these racial disparities and say 'that's not right.' We have to do everything within our power to deal with this."
DeWine called for changes in many sectors including higher education, foster care, and environmental protection.
Ohio House Democratic Leader Emilia Sykes, who was on the strike force, says this report took too long to be released, saying it should've come with the same sense of urgency that lead to the reopening of businesses.