Most of us can agree that mask wearing isn't ideal. But when weighing the pros against the cons, masks have really helped control the spread of COVID-19, along with other everyday illnesses. Since wearing masks and trying to stay indoors more often, people have also missed out on catching seasonal colds and the flu.
But a lot of people feel like wearing masks is a violation of their rights. During a rally that happened in Boise, Idaho, some adults even participated in mask burning to show their displeasure. But worse, they also encouraged their children to participate.
The protest was done with a permit and didn't get unruly. However, the open fire led many to worry about the message that was being sent. Masks have done a lot — and teachers who are back at school have been depending on masks to stay safe and healthy.
As children were throwing masks — many of which looked new and unworn — into the fire, their parents and other adults applauded them. They made a show out of it, sending the message that masks haven't been helpful throughout this difficult year. So what started the sudden outrage?
Most health officials are saying that while the end of this crisis is near, it's more important than ever to not get lax about mask wearing. Since professionals say it's best to keep wearing them, some of the people of Idaho wanted to express their anger about the situation. But seeing the burning is a heartbreaking scene.
Hearing the chants of the crowd is also enough to make those who comply with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention a little nervous. Footage taken of the event makes it apparent that kids were saying things like, "Here fire, you hungry? Here's another mask." That mask could have saved a life had it been properly used.
According to the Guardian, mask wearing in Boise is currently strongly suggested, but not mandated. An organizer of the event named Darr Moon was quoted as saying, "I think people need to realize that we're standing here today to rein back government, to reestablish our republican form of government, government that has balance between the branches."
If anything, this rally was just taking away resources from other people. Many people believe in the power of masks, including scientists and researchers who've dedicated so much time to figuring out COVID-19. Wearing masks has been something that the CDC has stood behind for many consecutive months, and in doing so, it has allowed many stores and restaurants to safely open again.
At the time of the rally, lawmakers in Washington were busy trying to help those who have financially suffered during the pandemic. They're in the midst of passing a $1.9 trillion stimulus and relief package to try to make a bigger difference. Thus, the rally seemed to strike a bad chord with a lot of people. Since masks can help contain the spread, why work toward extending these harsh conditions?
The rally was also an insult to those who have unfortunately lost someone to COVID-19. Currently, there've been 525,000 deaths in the United States, and the number will likely continue to rise. This isn't over just yet — even though we all want it to be.
Many see masks as a political statement, which they were never meant to be. The health and safety of our communities is important. Wearing a mask shouldn't be a giveaway of your own political choices and beliefs. They're just a way to help save the lives of the people we care about.
Many may argue that the survival rate of COVID-19 is still high — so why bother? The truth is, many people who have survived from COVID-19 are still dealing with symptoms much later. Many report a lack of energy they never had before. Some still can't taste or smell. Surviving it isn't enough.
The Washington Post reports that this rally was one of several. With the videos circulating regarding the involvement of the children, the rally in Boise just got more attention than the others held within the state. Republican state Rep. Dorothy Moon also fully supported this event, making it more of a big deal.
"At 10 a.m., people are going to be lighting up burn barrels to throw masks in, mandates, emergency orders and replications thereof, because I think everyone is ready for these emergency orders to be lifted," Dorothy said in a video. But while everyone is ready for the emergency orders to be lifted, the state isn't ready for it. These rules aren't put out solely to inconvenience residents.
While people should be allowed to protest things they don't believe in — and as the protest seemed peaceful despite the plenty of warnings not to start an actual fire — this rally in particular seems like it was potentially dangerous. Bringing children who are impressionable — and proficient carriers of COVID-19 — is what's truly heartbreaking. Being cheered on by adults is what they care about, not the political messages their parents believe masks bring.
Any kind of rally that includes children around an open flame is one to reconsider. Especially when that open flame also breaks the rules given to the rally organizers. Hearing the voices of kids screaming "Destroy them!" shows a lack of empathy for those who died due to lack of protection. But it's not the child's fault for not viewing it that way.
These aren't what we should be encouraging kids to do. We should encourage children to think about their neighbors and the friends who might not have the same amount of resources that they do. Children should learn to believe science and the professionals who don't have a hidden agenda aside from keeping people safe. They should learn not to throw away resources that other communities may need. The facts may be tough to digest, but the health crisis isn't over.
Always check with your health care provider concerning any symptoms you may be experiencing, and seek the most accurate information from the CDC and your state’s health department.
