Welcome, Social Media Ambassadors!
I’m excited to introduce Masks4Missions’ 2021 Winter Social Media Ambassadors! Our team now has three exceptional Vermont high school students and public safety advocates who will be sharing their stories and experiences around why mask-wearing is important, as well as highlighting organizations doing great work in this area.
For their blog debut, each has shared their personal reflection on the importance of mask-wearing.
Promoting mask wearing is important to me because everyone, especially elders, will be protected when people do the simple act of putting on a mask before going outside. A few days after I heard "covid-19" for the first time, I thought that I didn't need a mask because I am still young. A few seconds after voicing this thought out loud at school, I immediately learned that anyone can carry germs around that will infect those more vulnerable. By wearing a mask, you are consciously choosing to protect the people around you. Wearing a mask is also cool because who wears masks? Superheroes! Superheroes save people and I love that masks give everyone the opportunity to keep the community safe and be a superhero. I promote mask wearing as a way to give back to the community, and to encourage others to do the same.
-Laura Zhou-Hackett, Burlington High School Class of 2023
Mask wearing is a simple yet powerful tool in fighting all aspects of the Covid-19 Pandemic. New, stricter guidelines come with their own set of challenges. Restricting the amount of people one can see, cancelling sports, and closing restaurants, are some of the repercussions of rising cases. These limitations can be damaging to the mental health of students and can result in pandemic fatigue. Adhering to the state's guidelines and staying masked in necessary places will quickly free us of this second-hand burden. Masks are simple yet powerful tools in slowing the spread of tragedy. While it may feel like masks are an inconvenience, they are the best way to ensure that life returns to normal. When we follow state guidelines we are aiding ourselves in the race to renewed safety and self-care.
-Maddie Ahmadi, Essex High School, Class of 2023
I care about adhering to public health guidelines and wearing masks because I care about the lives of others. So many people have already suffered so much because of the selfishness of others. Wearing masks and following guidelines are simple, accessible ways for people to save lives and make a difference. Spending a few minutes washing your hands, respecting others by wearing a mask, and avoiding large gatherings can be inconvenient, but doing so means protecting yourself and those around you. We live in a time when everyone can be a hero and make the choice to save lives. I choose to wear a mask because wearing is caring.
-Emelia McCalla, Class of 2022
