If you haven’t come across the story of Jenna Martinez, you’re in for an eye-opener. Martinez recently penned an article for the UK’s Independent, provocatively titled, “My Family Are the Entitled Rule-Breakers You’ve Heard About During the Coronavirus Pandemic.” In her piece, she recounts a troubling incident involving her partner, who, while trying to cross a police checkpoint into a vacation spot, fabricated a story about leaving their kids home alone. The police returned her home, while Martinez had to conceal herself under the bed and instruct her children to remain silent about the situation. Her partner described the encounter as “police brutality.”
Martinez labels the officer a “bully” who acted like he was “king of the world,” yet she acknowledges that he was performing a necessary duty: preventing the spread of COVID-19. She admits that they fit the profile of individuals the police were aiming to keep out, given their recent travels. But they chose to ignore the regulations “because… well, we wanted to.” This blatant display of privilege is both shocking and selfish.
While it’s easy to critique such extreme behavior, it’s crucial to reflect on how many of us, myself included, have leveraged our privileges during this pandemic, albeit in less overtly problematic ways.
The Privilege of Choice During a Pandemic
Let’s explore how privilege translates into options and protections in times of crisis. For instance, after one unsettling visit to our local grocery store, where mask-wearing was nonexistent and social distancing was ignored, my partner and I decided to switch to a more secure store—a twenty-minute drive away. This alternative may be pricier, but it mandates masks and employs protective measures that keep customers safe. Our ability to choose where to shop comes from our financial stability and access to transportation—pure privilege.
Mental Well-Being and Space
We are fortunate enough to have a spacious backyard, a luxury not afforded to many Americans living in cramped apartments. Children confined indoors with limited outdoor access face significant challenges. We took it a step further by investing in a trampoline and building an elaborate play area for our kids. This required both time and financial resources, again highlighting our privilege.
Isolation Made Easier
Thanks to our Amazon Prime membership, virtually everything we need—dog food, household supplies, and more—can be delivered without stepping outside. Even grocery delivery comes with a cost, but we can afford it, along with personal protective equipment like masks and hand sanitizer. This financial cushion allows us to minimize exposure to the virus.
Job Security and Safety
Both my partner and I are fortunate to work from home, a situation many do not share. We aren’t facing the additional stress of balancing essential jobs that expose us to the virus. This security stems from our educational background and the jobs we’ve secured—privilege in action.
Access to Healthcare
Should we fall ill, we have the means to seek medical treatment without the fear of crippling debt. The privilege of having healthcare allows us to navigate this pandemic with less anxiety. While we are understandably scared of COVID-19, our resources provide a safety net that many lack.
Recognizing and Sharing Our Privilege
It’s time for those of us with privilege to acknowledge our advantages. We must ask ourselves how we can assist those less fortunate. Consider donating supplies or food to local food banks, especially as many families rely on school lunch programs. We can also share resources like toys and educational materials with families in need.
Remember, even small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect. Check on neighbors, offer to pick up groceries, or simply express gratitude to essential workers. A little thoughtfulness goes a long way.
For more insight on navigating this new landscape, check out our other blog post here, or if you’re seeking authority on home insemination, visit Make a Mom. For additional resources on pregnancy, the Mayo Clinic offers invaluable information.
Summary
In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has illuminated the privileges many of us possess, from financial stability and safe living conditions to access to healthcare. Acknowledging these advantages is the first step towards fostering compassion and ensuring that those less fortunate receive support. By recognizing our privileges, we can make a meaningful difference in our communities.
Keyphrase: COVID-19 privilege awareness
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