An Op-Ed from Rep. Holmes Addressing the Current COVID-19 Crisis: We Are Ohio Citizens
This coronavirus epidemic creates an important opportunity to review our responsibilities as good Ohio citizens. Our current crisis is a sober reminder of the true impact our actions have on one another. Being a good citizen means being a good teammate. The respectful way that we treat one another has a substantial impact on the quality of our daily lives.
Citizenship is based on the idea that we as individuals endure some personal inconvenience or discomfort for the good of our entire community. Whether it is picking up litter, donating to local charity events, or staying home when we are ill, the effort we focus toward the benefit of others results in a more positive environment for everyone.
Good citizens can support the community through thoughtful personal actions. In our current situation, we all know the things that we can do personally to prevent the spread of the coronavirus: wash our hands frequently with soap and water, avoid touching our face, cover our coughs and sneezes, disinfect surfaces daily, stay at home if we are sick, and practice social distancing.
More importantly, we practice good citizenship by the example we set for others. We cannot succumb to fear. Hoarding and other emotional behavior scares and threatens fellow citizens. Also, the important health items that we leave on the store shelves will be used by others who are also trying to limit the spread of the coronavirus. We have to combat this virus with a unified front. We are all watching how others react to this crisis, and the best leadership is truly by example. Positive confidence in our community and government leaders can be quickly passed to others and strengthen our resolve to defeat this airborne illness together.
Our good citizenship certainly protects the people we know and love. It’s just as critical that we understand that our thoughtful actions will protect hundreds of people who we don’t know and who are loved by their families and friends too. Communities are strengthened by common values and cooperative goals. But, shared adversity is perhaps the strongest connector of all. Our community has endured multiple national crises, weather emergencies, economic downturns, and security threats. We have emerged more unified after every obstacle and we will overcome this current coronavirus as well.
Please have confidence that America has demonstrated repeatedly for almost 250 years that we can prevail over any challenge as long as we stick together. Keep the faith! OHIO STRONG
Sincerely,
Adam Holmes
State Representative (97th District)
Ohio House of Representatives
Work: 614-644-6014