OPINION:
Peaceful protests about police brutality are just and proper. People want to see constructive reform within our police departments, and protests are a way to voice grievances. However, we must remain cognizant of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Cases in many states are rapidly rising, partly due to massive crowds where people ignore social-distancing measures. Large assemblies, such as protests, aid in the transmission of the disease, as people often stand shoulder-to-shoulder and without any face coverings. In fact, gatherings like ones in Italy likely triggered the rapid spread of the virus.
Mass protests may bring attention to the problem of deep-rooted social injustice, but they may inadvertently spread the coronavirus. So please protest while maintaining social distancing, or bring attention to the issue in other ways. Try lobbying your local legislator. We do not want police misconduct, but we also do not want another lockdown.
WESLEY PENG
Scottsdale, Ariz.
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