Even though data from across the country shows that the coronavirus is disproportionally causing sickness and death in black communities there are no testing sites in Orlando’s historically black communities.

There are three testing sites in Orange County. Two are in east Orange County and one is at the Orange County Convention Center on International Drive. None of those are geographically close to Orlando’s historically black communities, which are close to downtown. Without a car it’s very difficult for needy residents of those communities to reach a testing site.

These black communities have historically been neglected by government and business, which contributes to the high incidence of chronic illnesses that make residents ripe for infection by the coronavirus.

Many people in who live in those communities work in “essential” jobs such as health care, transportation, public works and food services that bring them into contact with infected persons, which cause them to bring the sickness home to their families.

Camping World Stadium and the Health Department offices on West Church Street would be ideal testing locations to serve the black communities, as well as downtown Orlando, which has been identified as a coronavirus "hot spot".

Bringing testing to Orlando’s black communities is essential to stop the pandemic and save lives throughout Central Florida.