MAYOR BARAKA STATEMENT REGARDING  

CHILDREN AFFECTED BY COVID-19

“According to CDC statistics, in the U.S., 76 percent of the COVID-19 cases among children are those from black and brown communities. In Newark, it is known, that we are a primarily black and brown community and we need to take the strongest measures possible to protect our children from a virus that has already taken so many lives. We are doing everything necessary to reduce risks to our youth and situations where they may be exposed.

“Come the second week in September, we will reassess our COVID-19 data and make a determination of what youth sports can be allowed safely. We are going to base this on science and not on pressure. This is about saving lives and these decisions will not be taken lightly.

“Our children are disproportionately impacted by this disease, so this is an alarming truth of why we need to continue to do what is in all of our power to keep everyone safe and I am calling on everyone in our city to understand.”