MEMPHIS, Tennessee —
The broad response to the coronavirus pandemic is of course aimed at keeping people healthy and saving lives. But the drastic measures being taken, locally and across the country, are doing immeasurable damage to the U.S. economy.
One of the biggest criticisms I have with the President’s response is his overemphasis on the health of the stock market, rather than the health of citizens. But the truth is, the longer this shutdown goes, the worse it will be financially, particularly for lower paid service workers.
That means employees at restaurants, retail stores, movie theaters, even area casinos, will suffer from reduced or lost wages. These are people who probably are not invested in the stock market. They are just trying to make it day to day on menial salaries.
Simply put, if ever there was a time for us to lend a hand to those in need, now is that time. Those who can, should contribute to the Mid-South Food Bank and other non-profit agencies that provide assistance to struggling families.
Restaurants that are staying open would welcome takeout orders. So, when you pick up those meals, add a generous tip to help out the staff. And for goodness sakes, stop the hoarding.
Yes, these are trying times. But the important thing is protecting public health. The stock market will take care of itself. It’s up to us to take care, of each other.
And that’s my point of view. I’m Otis Sanford, for Local 24 News.