If you haven’t already noticed, there is a growing divide in our community over the wearing of face masks. Should they be worn, or not? Are they effective, or not? How do you properly wear face masks? Do they protect the wearer as well as the greater population? These are all great points that we will explore more in the next week.
However, my immediate concern is the distraction this debate is creating. While we are attacking each other over wearing masks, our economy is under direct attack. Small businesses have been shut down or so severely restricted in operations that they are facing permanent closure. The impact the closure of our small business will have on our community is devastating enough on its own. These small businesses, that no one seems to be going to the mats for, are the very life blood of the community. In addition, our senior center is shut down, schools are closed, events have been canceled and our city government is closed to business. Our entire economy is being forced into bankruptcy.
The country is on the verge of another health crisis. Federal agencies and experts warn that a historic wave of mental health problems is approaching: depression, substance abuse, domestic violence, post-traumatic stress disorder and suicide.
The immediate danger is not due to the COVID-19 threat. It is the total collapse of our economy if we continue on the current path.
So, my message is this: pull those face masks off your eyes and place them over your lower face where they belong, and take a good look at the reality of our current circumstances. Let’s work together to save our city.