We must do our part to protect ourselves

As published in the Chicago Sun-Times by William J. Booker 3/19/20 

We can't allow differing political views to keep us from following guidelines for defeating coronavirus

For all the fear and uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus outbreak, it has given

Americans pause to reflect on life, and how they plan to survive during this difficult and
potentially life-threatening time.

The irony is that many of the social ills that separate us as individuals — and as communities — suddenly now confine us all as human beings, as more of us become infected.

"As social distancing becomes the new normal, it doesn’t matter how wealthy or famous you are.

We must do our part to protect ourselves. The risk of catching the virus could be three times higher than the flu. There is no amount of money anyone can throw at this global pandemic to stop it. We must do our part to protect ourselves and ensure that no one else dies or get sick. At a time of social distancing, it is vital that we find new and creative ways to focus our energy.

President Donald Trump has declared the outbreak a national emergency, but he has also
made it clear that true leadership, in his eyes, means not taking responsibility for any
decisions he may or may not make in the weeks ahead.

In any event, we can’t allow our political views or differences to keep us from following the strict guidelines and instructions given to us by the Centers for Disease Control and state health departments. For updated information on the coronavirus visit www.cdc.gov.