Masks on, for real this time
Mandating safety
Regarding “Texas hits another high for new cases,” (A1, June 24): It is remarkable to me that you want government to enforce the wearing of masks. What is wrong with you? Every business owner and every person going out in public should be doing this of their own accord. Since when does government have to think for people. It is time that the collective get off their behinds and take care of themselves. I don’t want a police state. Speak up people. Ask restaurants, neighbors and family to do the right thing. Hand out masks, squirt hand sanitizer on hands every time you step out. Why doesn’t the press ask why our shelves are still lacking surface cleaners, alcohol and hydrogen peroxide? This is America. I believe in our civil liberties and I believe in my right to speak and protect myself. Just give me the tools I need. Carmen Ulabarro, Bellaire
Government takes away civil liberties all the time. The federal government demands taxes for things you don’t believe in. The state government makes you wear a seat belt, demands you carry auto insurance, and in some counties, you are not allowed to use your phone near schools. What makes the wearing of a mask the moment to rebel? Aintre Antonoff, Houston
Just when I think it can’t get worse, I see a light at the end of the tunnel. I’m so relieved to read that Gov. Greg Abbott has concern for “personal liberty” and does not to want force people to have to abide by his wishes. After years of Abbott pushing to limit the personal liberty of women trying to access safe and legal abortion or transgender people being able to use a restroom that is in line with their gender identity, I am heartened to know that this crisis has caused him to reframe his thinking on “personal liberty.” Maybe when this is all over, women and marginalized communities can breathe easier. Assuming we don’t become a COVID-19 statistic. Rachel Gutow-Ellis, Houston
Today I will begin writing “Open in case of COVID-19” letters to each of our six grandchildren. My husband and I are in our late 70s and realize that the virus would likely be fatal for both of us. We are very involved in helping with the care of four of those grandkids and want each one to know how loved they are. All of this would be unnecessary if we had courageous and caring government leaders at the national and state levels. Sadly, we do not. Pat Timpanaro, Kingwood
Regarding “Politics unmasked,” (A13, June 23): Thank you for this crisp assessment of what has become a neverending parade of ineptitude, deflection and missed opportunity. And to every Republican who has tried to turn science, data and the wearing of masks into partisan issues — congratulations. You’ve instead made ignorance a partisan issue. Robert Campbell, Katy