SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – Congressman Adam Smith (D-WA) sat down with community leaders from International Community Health Services (ICHS), Asian Counseling and Referral Services (ACRS), Seattle Chinatown International District Preservation and Development Authority (SCIDpda), and Kin On to discuss coronavirus (COVID-19).

“Local and state health workers across Washington are working around the clock to combat the coronavirus outbreak and I thank them for their lifesaving efforts. We need to make sure agencies, physicians, and community health centers have the resources they need to continue responding, containing, and treating members of our community while keeping workers safe and healthy as they operate on the front lines.

“It is critical that members of the community follow guidance of health experts and avoid misinformation about coronavirus. Misinformation has led to the stigmatization of those of Asian descent based on fear and xenophobia – this is a danger to the wellbeing of our communities and to public health. We must remain unified and vigilant at this critical time to combat this epidemic and to uphold our resilient and diverse communities.

“I applaud ICHS, ACRS, SCIDpda, Kin On, and other community partners for their dedication to protecting the health and wellbeing of all of our community members.”