Indianapolis Recorder set to hold ‘Surviving COVID-19’ virtual town hall

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The coronavirus has had a devastating impact across the country. But the stories of survival help show there’s hope.

The Indianapolis Recorder is holding a virtual town hall called “Surviving COVID 19: Stories of Hope.” During a time where there’s so much uncertainly and even skepticism around COVID’s impact, these stories provide some comfort or insight.

The Indiana State Department of Health say the virus has infected more than 10,000 Hoosiers and more than 500 have died due to complications.

“There are still people who are skeptical if this disease really exists or if we need to social distance, why we have to be at home right now,” said paper editor Oseye Boyd.

Dr. Curtis Wright, president and CEO of the Eskenazi Medical Group, will be on the panel to give the facts and Eugene Murray and Esther Woodson will share their stories.

“It’s important for one, for local stories to be told. I think when we hear stories about people who are far away, it doesn’t have the same impact as it does when it hits close to home,” Boyd said.

Boyd says there’s been some skepticism around the severity of the virus. She said for 125 years, the paper has been about service and resources. Trying to get minorities to take the threat seriously is an extension of that.

“I am thankful that the Indianapolis Recorder has actually been doing that outreach work that the IBLC wants so much,” said state Rep. Robin Shackleford. She is also the chairperson for the Indiana Black Legislative Caucus.

The IBLC just released its list of recommendations to help ease COVID’s impact, but said this work is vital.

“When people are actually able to put a face on this disease and hear these testimonies, they most likely want to abide by staying at home,” Shackleford said.