Since the start of this quarantine and the rise of a global pandemic, I cannot believe my eyes. Seeing people in panic sprees, buying everything off the shelves, and increasing paranoia; yes what this world is facing is scary, but some things need to change. I believe that in serious situations (of any kind) true colors of everyone around us. This pandemic is a VERY serious situation and everyone is experiencing it differently. Due to that, we are seeing how people truly express themselves and their feelings. Racism is increasing and I cannot believe how insane it has been. From yelling at people to get out and go back to “their country” to physical assault. How can this world be so fearful that they would choose to inflict pain and suffering. ย I am sure that all of us have seen the videos of people yelling at Asians to go back to their country; when most of the time their country is America. The only difference between those people is their physical appearance. If someone of Asian ethnicity gives off a small cough, all eyes go to that person. Being concerned for someone having the virus and being cautious around them is one thing. But accusing someone, physically hurting them is a completely different story.
Throughout my life I have experienced all types of bullying. Those times have shaped me to be the person I am today. I have become strong willed and determined with the goals I have in life. I have also changed my perception on life and how to live it. In those years that I was bullied and hurt, I did not know what to do, I was young and did not know much to truly understand why people could be so mean. After everything, I realized that people are like that because they do not know how to express how they feel. They project their own situations onto other people to try and make themselves feel better. I always try to look for the best in people, no matter if I know them deeply or just pass by. However, with the rise of this global pandemic I have seen acts of racism aimed towards me with my own eyes.
When this virus first came into the news people were starting to get scared. Especially if people around them have travelled recently. With people and the news always saying China, that changes a person’s perspective to think that Chinese people are the problem. But, most people cannot tell the difference so they project this fear onto anyone that may look the part. People around me (strangers, peers) started to assume that I could be a problem. If I was coughing they looked at my physical appearance and immediately thought that I could be sick with the virus. People started to walk further from me, avoid passing by me at a close proximity, and look straight at me if I sneezed or had a cough. The worst thing that happened to me was a person came up to me and told me I had to leave a public space. I was with other people, none of Asian descent, they specifically aimed their comments and frustration towards me. It got to a point that this person would not leave me alone, so my friends and I had to leave before we could start our day together. I was not only hurt but I felt bad for my friends because they had this day planned and it was changed because I was uncomfortably in the situation.ย
Yes, coronavirus originated in China. There is a lot to be concerned and worried about. I understand that reality, but instead of attacking others because of fear, taking a different approach would be better. The ENTIRE world is going through this problem. We all need to be there for one another. Instead of yelling at someone to get off the streets or go back to where they came from, be cautious of yourself. Take care of your bodies and make sure to be safe in this situation. If you are uncomfortable with the people around you, self isolate and you will be sure to be okay. If you feel yourself getting sick, do not wait and go to the hospital to check it out. Take extra measures to make sure that you are safe and healthy. It is not only some people who need to do this but it is EVERYONE!ย
On another note be thankful for the people on the front line. Those who cannot self isolate, those who have to go out of the safety of their homes to take care of those who cannot take care of themselves. Be grateful that people are out there willing to make a sacrifice for others. Now, everyone please be safe. Wash your hands thoroughly. Do not touch others. Be careful out there. We are all in this together *insert High School Musical tune* :))