The Coronavirus is affecting our families, friends, and people all over the world. This is a heavy topic. Recently, the coronavirus has raised mass hysteria around the world, especially in China. Originating in Wuhan, the capital of Hubei in China, the virus has already killed over 259 people, and spread to more than 100 regions and countries outside of China. During this time, people have been more on edge than before. The problem stems from unwillingness to help and putting oneself first. Essentially, this has led to discrimination. I was at work the other day, and a customer walked in. With my usual smile and greeting, I took their order. When I began making their drink (I work at a boba shop) they "jokingly" remarked: "You don't have coronavirus do you?" While I understand the fear of the virus, that does NOT make it okay to make remarks like this. Take a look at social media--you'll see thousands of examples of this discrimination. Aside from the racial impact this has had, it has taken a much bigger toll on the people of Wuhan. While there are more than 11,700 people infected, the 259 dead (as of January 31) have all been from China. While we as a society should be sending unconditional support and love to those directly affected and locked with the virus in Wuhan, instead you see people joking on social media about the same virus that has killed someone's parents, someone's child, someone's teacher. It's scary to see that in a dire situation like this, people turn on each other rather than group together. On the popular WeChat platform used by almost all of China as a means to communicate, post, pay, and even call taxis, people are throwing each other under the bus. I heard about a case the other day where a student's mother was visiting her from Wuhan for winter break. Upon hearing this, the Asian community on WeChat her and her daughter's names, their address, and demanded they be quarantined in her dorm for the 14-day symptom period. While I understand the danger of the virus, we must also remember there are others who are literally risking their lives to save the lives of others. The hospital workers sent in from all over China to Wuhan have been split from their families and sent into an epidemic. I'd like to ask each of you to take a moment and donate to the fundraiser I have set up below. Please also share it on your social media pages so we spread the word and meet our target goal of $1,000. (link now closed) Stay updated on the progress we'e made with the fundraiser by following our instagram @declarasian, and signing up for our newsletters here. Update (2/18/2020): Due to logistics and difficulty contacting trustworthy shipping companies to ensure our supplies make it to the front line in Wuhan, we have redirected all funds towards a larger, sponsored and legitimate fundraiser. Thank you to everyone who helped out. Check out the fundraiser our funds were redirected to here: Once again, thanks to everyone who donated. The fight is far from over, and besides donating, it's important to spread facts and clamp down on rumors stemming from racism about the coronavirus.
xoxo, Carina Sun
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