Separate But One – How Humanity is Coming Together During the COVID-19 Crisis By: Noor Yassein Photo by Lorie Shaull As panic and uncertainty rise in this unprecedented time, so too does the positivity and strengthened spirit of humanity. Even in the wake of COVID-19, through events like the worldwide thanking of frontline workers, we have shown that we can pull together in this time of need. It has given us all a glimmer of hope that we can, and will, get through this. The appreciation of frontline workers has developed into a worldwide trend. The idea is to show our appreciation for those who are putting their lives at risk every day in order to ensure our safety; those working to get everything back to normal as soon as they can. In early March, Italians engaged in nationwide applause for their frontline workers. Social media users coordinated with one another to make this possible. Italy was one of the countries worst hit in terms of death and infection rate at the time. But there was positivity directed at those at arguably the highest risk, showing them how much they are appreciated. According to the New York Times, this demonstrates how the people of Italy are able to stand together in a spirited, resilient fashion, even in the face of the worst national emergency since World War 2. Even with a
nationwide lockdown, people still found a way to come together and make sure that their fellow Italians knew they were not alone. Italy is not the only place where the goodness of humanity is shining through. The nationwide applause became a trend throughout the United Kingdom as well, with people emerging from their houses to clap in support, bang pots and pans, and just make noise to show their appreciation (however it should be noted that some countries, such as Spain or Brazil, in which citizens are outside banging pots and pans, it is in protest rather than in solidarity). In Iran, there were videos of doctors fully geared up and dancing in the emergency room, to keep the spirits high. Throughout Canada, people have written messages in chalk along the sidewalk, thanking the workers and spreading positivity. People have made signs, thank you videos, and posted pictures of their loved ones working on the front lines. page 12
