The Maple Residences in Steveston echoed with the sound of people banging pots and pans Friday night to declare their thanks for the province’s healthcare workers fighting the COVID-19 pandemic.
It’s become a nightly ritual, first started by residents of Vancouver’s West End neighbourhood, across the province. At 7 p.m. each night, British Columbians head out to their balconies or the streets in raucous support of healthcare workers on the front lines of the pandemic.
Similar declarations of support have also been made around the globe at designated times, such as in the U.K. and Italy, as evidenced by the hashtag #clapfordoctors on Twitter and Instagram.
“The Maples’ residents went out on their balconies (and) rang bells, clapped their hands, banged pots, pans or anything they could get their hands on in support and appreciation of frontline workers…(and those) helping us get through this crisis,” said Eileen Campbell, who submitted a video of the residents to the Richmond News.
They aren’t the only ones in Richmond showing their support.
On Thursday, Richmond RCMP posted a video on Twitter of a cavalcade of police cars, sirens blaring in salute of healthcare workers, lined up outside of Richmond Hospital.
Saluting our healthcare workers for all they do. #RichmondRCMP thank you for your dedication! pic.twitter.com/rQEwXTucNn
— Richmond RCMP (@RichmondRCMP) March 27, 2020
“Saluting our healthcare workers for all they do. Richmond RCMP thank you for your dedication,” reads the post.
Meanwhile, Debra Wells posted to the News’ Facebook page that where she lives, everyone is “howling in support,” and stringing up Christmas lights in solidarity – and a sign that there is a light at the end of this tunnel.
