What is the right choice?

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on May 3 defended her decision to extend a stayat-home order to May 15, declaring, “Whether you agree with me or not, I’m working to protect your life if you live in the state of Michigan.”

One thing we’ve learned about COVID-19: It is very contagious, and continues to spread in spite of closing schools and businesses, sporting events, masks and distancing. It seems most of us will be exposed eventually. Governors, can you really protect us?

The initial isolation, plus the embargo on overseas flights, were good ideas. We didn’t know what we were up against. We were short on protective equipment, medical supplies, hospital beds and treatment drugs. Now, we have know-how and needed supplies.

The only choice going forward is “fast” or “slow.” In this case “fast” means the schools and businesses reopen in a short time frame while taking precautions. “Slow” means we do the reopening slowly. However, in either event, if we take a tally over the next two years — of those who become seriously ill, and those who die — I bet the result after two years will be pretty much the same.

Taking the “fast” route means the number of cases will tick upward (yikes!) in the next one to three months. But with the “slow” option, we would be exposed anyway, just months later. The other result of a “slow” reopening is further economic weakening. More bankruptcies, prolonged unemployment and children away from school. What is the right choice?

— Thomas Creswell, Bakersfield

TRAFFIC LIGHTS AND YOUR RIGHTS

For all of the people protesting about wearing face masks, I have a question. If that interferes with your individual rights, I’m wondering how you feel about traffic lights. Do you observe them? They protect both you and me, just like face masks.

— Claudia Keith, Bakersfield

HONORING OUR FEMALE HEROES

Our world has always been powered by courageous women workers and caretakers, and now, with the threat and reality of COVID-19, our lives depend on our local leaders doing more.

As COVID-19 continues to spread, it threatens the lives, health and livelihoods of our friends and neighbors. Women are on the front lines of the response. We make up the majority of workers at your local hospital, child welfare agency and neighborhood grocery store. Women remain the primary caretaker of our children and are often responsible for caring for elderly parents. Women know first-hand how difficult these times are; we’re losing our jobs at a greater rate. Yet, women understand that health is first and foremost.

In times of crisis and adversity like these, leaders must make a choice. To rise to the challenge, or shrink away from responsibility. To leave no one behind, or settle for good enough. To do no harm, or deepen divides and further inequities. To capitulate to those with the deepest pockets, or to protect everyone.

California has led the way in its response to COVID-19. Our response has been dictated by science and experts. We ask that you, our local leaders, continue to heed California’s guidelines. Follow the advice of California’s top experts, and protect the residents you serve. Reopen in accordance with both federal and state guidelines, so that we can all share a bright future together.

— Kimberly Kirchmer and Robin Walters, co-directors of Women’s

March Kern County