COVID-19 and the Privilege of Social Isolation

I’ve always lived between socioeconomic realities, with friends with very different lives and little to no idea about how ‘the other side’ lives. This pandemic has brought these different realities into stark contrast — and while there’s much talk about people’s responsibility to stay home from work and practice social distancing, there’s a lack of recognition for those whose livelihood depends on being an entertainer or service industry employee. I want to talk about them.

One of the immense privileges of my crazy decision to move to New York without a cushy job or big bank account is having “friends in low places”. Also known as the people who have been my colleagues, fellow performers or local bar/cafe family in this city. The strong sense of community is not what many associate with New York, but we take care of each other in a way that I’ve not seen amongst the more affluent classes. In the midst of this crisis, with many facing job losses and financial insecurity, the poorest in this city are making the effort to check in with their friends at their jobs, leaving large tips and talking through everything. It’s how we’ve always supported each other in this brutal industry. We’re all scared, and those of you currently working from home are doing little to take care of us.