Rewind: Covid-19 and America
- Maleah Weathersby
- May 20, 2021
- 4 min read
The Covid-19 Pandemic has altered the lives of children and adults all across America since
its outbreak in the March of 2020. According to a survey conducted by the Pew Research
Center, “The vast majority of Americans (89%) mentioned at least one negative change in
their own lives, while a smaller share (though still a 73% majority) mentioned at least one
unexpected upside. Most have experienced these negative impacts and silver linings
simultaneously: Two-thirds (67%) of Americans mentioned at least one negative and at least
one positive change since the pandemic began.“Many personal relationships, mental and
physical health, jobs, financial situations, and more have been affected drastically over the
year of the pandemic.” Let’s take a look into the political events that have occured over this
time period:
March 11, 2020
The coronavirus was in its prime state, spreading across the country of America rapidly.
President Donald Trump declared suspension of travel from Europe for 30 days in an attempt
to keep the country as safe as possible. The recommendations coming from the Center for
Disease Control (CDC) changed habitually. US citizens were initially told wearing a mask
was not needed, but, as more investigations were directed, it became clear that the virus
required wearing protective gear- such as a mask and long sleeve shirts, to help reduce
spreading. With more recommendations coming from health authorities and the CDC,
lawmakers took action accordingly, making protection commands in many states across the
US. However, even the wearing of a mask stirred political discourse, with numerous
Americans saying the stipulation of wearing a mask impinged on their individualism.
During this time, businesses felt as though they were being superfluously focused on
although they believed they had executed proper protection guidelines to hinder the virus
from coming into their workplace. Likewise, many entrepreneurs and elected officials made
their rejections to the commands known. However, leaders demonstrated hypocrisy as they
could seemingly not adhere to the regulations they encouraged citizens to execute. Said
officials constantly traveled after advising the public not to do so. Some traveled to different
states, or even countries, while some went to dinner and large public areas.
March 27, 2020
Unemployment increased drastically across the US as thousands of businesses were
discontinued. On this day, the $2 trillion Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security
(CARES) Act- more casually known as the “stimulus check”- was passed by Congress and
signed by the President. In addition to the stimulus checks, authority figures authorized laws
for eviction prohibition and rent alleviation, intended to keep everyone in a stable home.
June 1, 2020
Beginning with the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, MN, national retribution on racial
equity broke out as individuals rampaged through the cities all around the country. Citizens
wanted answers from the officials and felt the need to address disappointments from the past. They desired for their beliefs that it is essential for everyone to terminate the tyranny
separating races to be heard, and for everyone to accept the different and equivalent qualities entitled to them, a fair assessment of individuals that all must proclaim to stop further implementation of detachment.
September 29, 2020
The first presidential debate between President Donald Trump and former Vice President in
Cleveland. To no avail, President Trump continually cut off Biden and the moderator in the
middle of talking.
October 2, 2020
President Donald Trump announced his and his wife’s diagnosis on Twitter™; they both
tested positive for the coronavirus. Less than 24 hours following his announcement, the
Trumps were flown to Walter Reed Medical Center for three days to receive treatment.
Unsurprisingly, this event raised commentary such as his hypocrisy by not following his
recommended guidelines and concern for those who he came in contact with before his
diagnosis.
November 3, 2020
In the middle of this crisis, America underwent a historical election that used Covid-19 as an
advantage for politicians to gain voters. Now that election time had rolled around again, the
coronavirus led many to participate in early voting; however, with the numerous absentee
voters, it became evident that the election would take a while to be completed.
November 7, 2020
Former Vice President Joe Biden won the election and became the 46th president of The United States of America. Between this day and now, Donald Trump and his allies have
attempted to make fraudulent claims and discredit the election to obtain Trump’s position in
the office again.
December 14, 2020
The Electoral College officially announces its decision to welcome Joe Biden into office as
the nation’s next president.
January-March 2021
With the new vaccine and its variation of immunizations, it appears as though we may be
turning a corner and can begin renovating the nation again. However, allegations began to
form relating to political partiality and the widespread pandemic. Many believed politicians
and other authority figures were to be distributed the vaccine before other Americans were
able to access it.
As of March 2021, Congress has passed the second stimulus bill to improve the lives of
Americans, and, hopefully, assist in restoring the country. There are still many inquiries
concerning the method and mechanism of the vaccine that is still unanswered.
Throughout the trials and tribulations, American citizens represented the democracy
promised to America. They let their voices be heard and participated, connecting people all
across the nation.
How To Help
Stay safe when you go outdoors! Wear your mask and other protective gear of your liking.
Put health and equity first. You cannot get anything accomplished if you are not healthy and living.
Consider taking the new vaccine and get immunized if eligible!
Educate others about prevention methods.
Clean all surfaces, especially after receiving visitors.
Sources
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