Civics Article—April 20, 2022
By Burklin, Zain O—THM 05 000
The article, WA ferries drop mask rule, but most Seattle-area transit agencies keep theirs, by David Kroman,
published April 18, 2022, at 6:36 pm, is about how Seattle-area transit is keeping the mask mandate in effect,
while other public transportation is not.
Recently, on April 19th, 2022, by the order of a federal judge in Florida, mask mandates for public
transportation has been lifted all throughout the U.S., including airlines, buses, trains, and streetcars.
Masks will continue to be required on buses and trains in the Seattle area on airlines and public
transportation, despite the order of the judge.
“‘While a federal judge in Florida ruled against the transit mask mandate, there may be an appeal
from the Justice Department that could lead to a delay in implementation, or for the decision to be altered
or overruled,’ Metro spokesperson Sean Hawkes said in a statement. ‘In the meantime, Metro’s mask
mandate remains in effect.’”
The reason why this has sparked so much controversy is because some people with health issues
are unable to go on public transportation. They say that it isn’t fair that they may be rendered unable to go
on any public transportation. Imagine if you’re in a wheelchair, with auto immune disease, relying on social
security as your income. Do you think you can afford to have someone go and get your groceries every day?
Others argue that the courts ruling is a court’s ruling is a court’s ruling and that all of us hate
masks. While that may be true, a judge is only a judge if they look at everyone’s point of view, not just
theirs.
This helps me be a better citizen as it allows me to stay informed of issues in this community and
around the world.
This ties to one big question asked by the entire country, and the entire world. Should masks be
required for the sake of our less fortunate citizens?
Burklin, Zain O - THM 05 000