COVID-19 Making The World Selfish
There is no argument that the situation we are finding ourselves in is affecting every individual, unfortunately there are marginalized groups being more severely impacted than others. With this being said, many believe the talk of a reopened economy is indecent to those being directly impacted by COVID-19. But is it truly unbefitting for people to want a reopen economy when nearly half of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck and over half do not have an emergency fund to cover at least three months of expenses? It has been over a month since the lock down and social distancing was strongly encouraged in the United States, since then over 26 million jobs have been lost, and the unemployment rate has been the highest it has been since August 2017. Americans are dealing with the fear of COVID-19 and millions are also now facing the uncertainty of what this lockdown will mean in the future for them and their families.
Most states have now implemented another 30 day stay at home order, causing many to go into panic and fear of the unknown. During the discussion of an extended lockdown there has been a venn diagram circulating around social media, which I first found on twitter, posted by Meghan McCain, cohost of The View on ABC. The venn diagram was made up of three circles, first one said, people taking COVID-19 serious, the second circle, people worried about expansion of authoritarian government policies, and the last, people very concerned about impending economic devastation. In the middle of the venn diagram, connecting all three circles together it says, me. Followers were quick to opinionate their disagreement calling it, entitled, privileged, cold hearted, but they were unwilling to know why these other two factors can be just as damaging for the average American.
For those fortunate enough to keep their job by working from home are able to follow government orders to stay home and practice social distancing. According to an article from Bookings, higher paid professionals are able to easily work from home, but what about those whose job cannot be performed at home? Most Americans, if not all, are concerned about the health risk COVID is causing around the globe, but little is being done to help groups and communities being harmed in different ways. I have struggled to articulate my thoughts and opinions in a sensitive manner that can open up dialougue on all our situations, and help find solutions for us all. One thought I have lingered with over the last week is, if it is possible that those thinking solely on the health risk of COVID and nothing else, to be more selfish or more privileged than the people who need to go back to work to feed their family?
For instance, my father happens to be one of the millions that have lost their job, his job of 18 years, the job that has supported his wife and four daughters. Although we are experiencing all this as a family right now, we find ourselves to be one of the lucky few to not have to worry about tomorrows meal, or next month’s rent. Broken heartedly, I know this is not the case for a lot of other families going through this difficult and unprecedented time.
It is nothing but dismal to see humans attack other humans during a time of crisis instead of coming from a place of understanding. It is important during a time like this, we come together, share our thoughts and experiences, and most importantly, help. If there is anything you can do, whether it is by donating or volunteering, I encourage you to do your part.
