Editor:
Re: “Masks and mutual respect,” Letters, March 5.
This is about civic duty not freedom. Good citizens stop at red lights, wear seatbelts and don’t drive while drunk. Now we are asked to wear masks indoors in public places, wash our hands and keep our distance. It is also good if we go a few steps further and eat well, exercise, get a good night’s sleep and phone our loved ones.
I don’t care what you believe. Masks are effective to keep from passing viruses. Scientists will tell you, doctors will tell you and your society asks you to wear one indoors. This particular disease can be passed by people without symptoms, so not wearing a mask because you feel fine is not OK.
Masks do not deprive you of oxygen. You don’t have to wear them all day as hospital workers do, just when in public places. Please stop using the “freedom” card. You live in one of the few societies not run by a dictator and whose leaders (if not perfect) listen to experts on viruses and pandemics and are trying to lead us safely through this. Your ignorance is not an excuse. Wear a mask.
Joan Payne, Sechelt
