If you want to wear a mask, then, by all means, wear one but leave me alone if I choose not to.
North Dakota’s Republican Governor Doug Burgum did something you usually don’t see from politicians. He shared his feelings publicly in urging his citizens not to turn other citizens wearing face masks. Those who decide to wear masks feel as if they are helping to protect the public during the COVID-19 while also protecting themselves, and it shouldn’t be a political issue.
During a Friday press briefing, Gov. Burgum said, “We’re all in this together, and there’s only one battle we’re fighting, and that’s the battle of the virus.”
I have been a germaphobe long before this pandemic, so I do wash my hands, use hand sanitizer, spray down everything, tables, carts, etc. The governor’s point was that wearing a mask protects other people. About 30% of those who have covid-19 do not know they have it. Think of wearing a mask to safeguard your community.
Burgum said, “there should be no mask, shaming.” He urged North Dakotans to assume people wearing masks face extra health risks in their lives or are “trying to take care” of people they love, adding: “Let’s just start there.” How about people wearing masks because they are maybe asymptomatic shedding the virus on others. When you see that, thank them for their concern for YOU.
I like the message and being a conservative, Burgum is unique in preaching unity instead of the opposite. However, it needs to be said often; those who were wearing homemade masks are doing it to protect others just in case they are positive and asymptomatic. They are doing it for the same people that are trying to give them crap about it.
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As for me, I haven’t heard anyone complain about people wearing masks. They only complain if someone ISN’T wearing a mask. If you’re worried about catching something from a person not wearing a mask, stay away from them. White House COVID-19 Task Team member, Dr. Birx says it’s okay not to wear one outside as long as you can socially distance.
Governor knows a family with the condition that makes them susceptible to COVID-19 infection and is personally touched by it. It is sad to see Americans not accepting differences and trying to impose their will on others. If one wishes to protect himself and his family by wearing a mask, that is his right to do so.
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He must not be bullied and harassed by those who chose not to do so. It just shows how simple-minded they are.
A major point of being in a Free Society is that we get to debate EVERYTHING.
This piece was written by Wayne Dupree on May 23, 2020. It originally appeared in WayneDupree.com and is used by permission.
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