I saw a sign in a restaurant that reminded food handlers, “State law and basic human decency require you to wash your hands.” During a deadly pandemic, it is also basic human decency to wear a mask, keep your distance and wash your hands to keep from spreading COVID-19 to others who may then be sickened or die.
We are fortunate to have responsible leadership in Anchorage. Acting Mayor Austin Quinn-Davidson’s sudden appointment during a deadly pandemic and the resulting economic stress put her in a difficult position, but she has risen to the challenge. She and Assembly Chair Felix Rivera are working together to protect the health and safety of our residents. Unfortunately, their efforts to enforce mask mandates and restrict public gatherings have been met with resistance from a group of loud, rude and threatening protesters.
Congressman John Lewis famously encouraged people to get in good trouble, necessary trouble, when faced with injustice. In this case, these protestors are making bad trouble, unnecessary trouble, that could kill people while public servants Quinn-Davidson and Rivera are doing their best to protect us.
Now we know the end of the pandemic is near. Let’s practice common sense and support our municipal leaders so we can celebrate the end of this terrible disease.
— Patrice Parker
Anchorage
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