Councilman Pedro Espinal (Ward 10) introduced a resolution at tonight’s City Council meeting urging the State of Rhode Island to provide personal protective equipment (PPE) to any individual who tests positive for COVID-19. Additionally the resolution urges the State to provide individuals with information regarding PPE, self-isolation and best practices to stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus translated into the individual’s native language.

“As we have all seen, the COVID-19 virus has disproportionately affected minority communities and communities of color,” stated Councilman Pedro Espinal, “Many of the Rhode Islanders in these communities may not speak English and are unable to self-isolate properly due to a lack of information, resources, PPE or space in their homes,”.

Self-isolation is key to keeping individuals who have tested positive with COVID-19 from spreading the virus. However, self-isolation can be very difficult when an individual lives with other people in their home, especially in close quarters. Further complicating this issue is the lack of translated information on health and safety for non-English speakers.

“Facts, data and PPE have been some of the most important factors in our fight with COVID-19. Personal Protective Equipment and reliable information on how to keep yourself and those around you safe must be made available to anyone who has tested positive with COVID-19; especially our neighbors who may not speak english,” continued Councilman Espinal.

Upon passage, copies of this resolution will be sent to Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo and Director of the Rhode Island Department of Health Dr. Nicole Alexander-Scott.