Coronavirus was declared a public health emergency of international concern on 30 January 2020( source: WHO). It was thought that this virus will act as an equalizer, i.e., it would help eradicate the gap between the rich and poor. But unsurprisingly, it also led to the fuelling of prejudice and racism.
In the USA, for example, discriminatory practices against African Americans are on an all-time high at the present amidst the claims that blacks are more prone to catching the virus. Similarly, in India, land of diversity, and breeder of various stereotypes and prejudices, citizens are becoming more vocal, mocking the natives from the north-eastern states of India.
Psychologists claim that rage and aggressive tendencies are increasing amongst the human-beings amidst the fear of the unknown and the deteriorating mental health of the individuals because of the pandemic and the lockdown imposed throughout the world. As social creatures, humans aren't accustomed to living in self-isolation for longer periods than they have to, which is the reason why most of the individuals are acting out.
Due to the aforementioned reasons individuals are channeling the frustration and anger, and playing the blame game, holding others responsible for the difficult situation that they have landed in, the situation that originated from no one's fault in particular.
Why only racism against the North-East Indians? Because of their uncanny resemblance to the Chinese people, for example, "Chinki is a commonly used derogatory term used to mock and defame them.
Coronavirus was first found in Wuhan, the capital of central China’s Hubei province. There is no evidence as of yet that China was behind the leak of coronavirus, only rumors. Because of this hearsay, the Chinese government has been under suspicion. Because of their close resemblance to Chinese natives, north-eastern has since been the subject of various racial-discrimination attacks.
In recent days, social media sites have become a very dark place wherein the bullies under disguise are attacking whoever sparks their interest just to pass their time. The need of the hour is to spread awareness in this area. Individuals need to keep themselves occupied by engaging in various activities that can help them utilize their time and energy productively.
Only if we broaden our thinking can we prevent such abhorrent behavior from taking place? These heinous acts are on a surge because most of the denizens are frightened, frustrated and under constant stress. There is a need for mental health workshops to help individuals battle the trauma created because of the pandemic.
At the time of this pandemic, instead of gaining sadistic satisfaction by putting others down, individuals should instead support one another. We can overcome these harsh times only by sticking together and fighting against it. Together, not apart.
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