I’m the only one in my institution masking, running hepa filters in my class, asking students to stay home when sick, etc. Despite feeling alienated, I have to keep reminding myself that these small acts have helped prevent the spread of all kinds of respiratory infections and its long term impacts.

I had to attend a work event where I was the only person masking. The physical, mental, and emotional toll it took to be approachable and act ‘normal’ so as to not make others uncomfortable is hard. My existence in those spaces reminds a world that is desperate to forget that #covidisnotover.

I’ve been cautioned about inciting students who are advocating for better education. The response has been to dismiss, negate, and silence these students. I’m starting to question if we are mistaking student apathy with quiet refusals/resistance to authority… a means to protest unchecked power.