Alan L. Keck, Opinion contributor Published 6:01 a.m. ET July 14, 2020

Businesses and cities across the country are requiring people to wear masks, which some people say infringe upon their individual rights. USA TODAY

I understand the frustration that builds.

Not only has the coronavirus pandemic inflicted extreme cost and pain across Kentucky, the way in which it has been governed has often been inconsistent. Rules and guidelines waffle; at times, hypocrisy reigns.

We were told to practice social distancing. We were discouraged from going to houses of worship. Yet, blind eyes were turned to mass riots and protests. This should have never been a truth in America. Likewise, the idea that keeping child care centers closed is somehow safer than allowing crowds in grocery and hardware stores never made sense. Massive corporations got a pass to stay open while Main Street was forced to close.

Kentuckians have been diligent in flattening the curve, but we continue to suffer. We have led the nation in unemployment claims, and thousands are struggling to survive still waiting for their benefits. Our budget shortfall will likely be close to $1 billion. Without question we are seeing increases in anxiety, depression and drug use.

And so its with this pain and frustration in mind that I make a new plea a new request for cooperation.

Please wear a mask. But dont do it because a politician told you to. Do it to save our economy and to save lives.

Opinion: Sending kidsto schools without nurses is irresponsible in COVID-19 crisis

This is how often you should wash your cloth face mask. USA TODAY

While I believe Gov. Andy Beshears actions are well intended and that he cares about Kentuckians, it has been clear throughout this pandemic he doesnt value due process. Though we continue to bear the brunt of his policy decisions, this is a time for all leaders to work together. We have to embrace solutions that mitigate risk while promoting a thriving economy.

Dont wear a mask because Gov. Beshear said so, or because I say so. Do it to ensure he has no reason to shut down our economy again. Wear a mask so he will not shutter our optometrists, chiropractorsor other elective but altogether necessary medical services. Do it to keep our barber shops, gyms, hair salonsand restaurants open. Wear a mask to help Kentuckians keep their jobs.

Wear a mask because it will help our children get back to the routines they so desperately need while helping parents return to work. A recent Washington Post article reported that nearly a third of the nations workforce has children at home, and theyre struggling to keep up. Researchers estimate nearly 10% of economic activity will be completely wiped out as long as schools and day cares remain closed. Moreover,the American Academy of Pediatrics warned that keeping children out of school in the fall could lead to mental and physical harm by causing social isolation. We have to find a safe way to bring these services back to Kentucky families, and it starts by covering our faces.

Opinion: Embracing telehealth helped usflatten the curve in COVID-19 battle

Alan L. Keck is the mayor of Somerset.(Photo: Picasa)

Wear a mask because it will likely help sports resume this fall, ensuring those who can compete at the next level get that opportunity and opening the door to more options for physical activity. This is a crucial point in the conversation about beating this virus: Wearing a mask isnt the only way we combat it. We must begin talking about getting proper exercise, better nutrition, adequate sunlight, and taking the necessary steps to promote mental and spiritual wellness along with other key elements of a healthy lifestyle. As we become a healthier state, the better prepared we are and the more we can prevent the next pandemic from wrecking as many lives as this one.

Finally, wear a mask because you care, about yourself and your family members. Your fellow Kentuckians. Your neighbors, your friends. Because you care about whether they contract COVID-19 and you care about whether more people contracting it causes them to lose their jobs. Masks are not 100% effective, but nothing we do to fight this virus will be even a vaccine. We must use the best methods we have available. I believe we the people are at our best when we lead with kindness and compassion, even when we have to make personal sacrifices to do so.

The coronavirus pandemic has been the challenge of our lifetime. Ive said for weeks now that Somerset and Pulaski County residents have risen to that challenge. We have flattened the curve and prevented our hospitals from being overwhelmed which, after all, was the original goal. We are not perfect, but we have led in many ways, including drafting strategic reopening proposals that allowed our friends and loved ones to get back to work.

Now we must lead in a different way. I understand you are frustrated. So am I. But its time we do what it takes to put this virus behind us, as quickly as we can.

Related: What to know about Kentucky's new face mask mandate

Alan L. Keck is the mayor of Somerset, Kentucky.

Read or Share this story: https://www.courier-journal.com/story/opinion/2020/07/14/kentucky-face-mask-mandate-wear-mask-save-lives-and-economy/5431470002/

Read more from the original source:
Opinion: Dont wear a mask because Beshear told you to. Do it to save lives and the economy - Courier Journal