Hale was too Harsh
To the Editor:
I was extremely disappointed to read Ms. Hale’s article in last Friday’s paper.
Her article, hypocritically entitled “It’s a Free Country” actually mocked freedom and liberty. It’s majority, in condescending tone, was dedicated to shaming anyone who goes maskless - specifically denigrating men, implying that they are child-like, macho, selfish and stupid. She described how men are too proud to wear masks, while the women (portrayed as angelic, docile, and subservient) are working to keep everyone safe.
Experts (still) debate the effectiveness of masks in thwarting the virus. Masks decrease oxygen intake and increase carbon dioxide. And, as every high school student learns, bacteria and viruses thrive in dark, warm, moist environments.
Do you know what I see during these distressing times? I see something worse than a virus. I see neighbors and friends turning against each other. I see people spewing anger towards people who have different opinions, while even doctors can’t agree on the necessity and safety of wearing masks.
I look around me now and see a town, a state, a country divided. I see faceless, masked people separated by six feet of emptiness. I see businesses forced to close, families separated from those in nursing homes, and life as we know it grinding to a halt.
An article that spews absolute hatred towards men will solve nothing. An article that blames the increase in COVID cases on small businesses and community celebrations will solve nothing.
Ms. Hale closes her article with a mention of the upcoming 4th of July celebration. She states that it would be a “great example of community spirit” if “everyone who attends it, man, woman, and child, wears an adequate mask and observes strict social distancing.” This image seems unbefitting of a holiday celebrating liberty. Perhaps those so worried about the virus should simply stay home.
I don’t wish to disrespect Ms. Hale. I simply think that her article was too harsh and demeaning. Those who refuse to wear masks aren’t the problem and dividing the community further won’t help.
Why do you not judge for yourselves what is right? (Luke 13:57)
Katelyn Bernsen, (age 15)
Plum