Rep. Hakeem donates blood on Juneteenth for sickle cell awareness

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) — Local Representative Yusuf Hakeem wants to encourage communities of color to become regular blood donors.

He teamed up with Blood Assurance and the Nicholas Foundation on Wednesday to spread awareness about the need for blood donors.

Hakeem says there is a need for Black Chattanoogans to donate blood if they are able. He said this is because of the “demand for subtypes typically carried by those with Black heritage.”

Rep. Yusuf Hakeem donates blood to bring awareness to sickle cell disease and need for more donors. BLOOD ASSURANCE.

Wednesday, June 19 is now a federal holiday celebrating the freedom of all enslaved people in 1865. It’s known as Juneteenth.

However, June 19 is also “World Sickle Cell Awareness Day.”

Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder. There are several types, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe.

This day aims to bring recognition to those with sickle cell disease, which affects more than 100,000 people every year. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated 90% of people with the disease are African American, and about 9% are Hispanic or Latino.

The CDC also said less than 1% of blood donations come from African Americans.

Rep. Hakeem is a monthly donor. He was recently recognized as a ten-gallon blood donor, his team stated.

“I donate blood monthly because I know the exponential impact donations from people like me can have on the well-being of black and brown communities,” said Rep. Hakeem. “Without a diverse supply of blood, our Black and Brown neighbors can find their options limited should they have an emergency situation. As a leader of this community, I know the critical importances of leading by example to impact this one area where our Black and Brown brothers and sisters are at a disadvantage – and I do not take that responsibility lightly.”

Blood Assurance President and CEO Liz Culler explained that many people with sickle cell disease need monthly blood transfusions. She said the type of blood needed is often unavailable.

“We have a constant need for direct matches, and blood from Black and Brown donors is significantly more likely to be a match than blood from donors of other races and ethnicities. Thank you to Representative Hakeem for being such a tireless advocate for this life-saving cause,” said Dr. Culler.

Those interested in donating blood can sign up here.