MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The decision to cancel this year’s Southern Heritage Classic and accompanying events tells you all you need to know about the coronavirus pandemic. It is not playing. So neither are Jackson State and Tennessee State at the Liberty Bowl in September.
Classic founder Fred Jones and his team are doing the responsible thing by calling off the game, the tailgating and other events – because COVID19 is not going away soon. And we know that the virus disproportionately affects African Americans.
Which brings us to the city council vote Tuesday approving an ordinance requiring people to wear masks in many public places. The decision was not unanimous. Four of the 13 members voted no. All four of them are white men. You can make of that what you will.
Plus, there are legitimate questions about how the ordinance will be enforced, or if it can be. But the vote was less about enforcement and more about leadership and sending a message that we all must do what we can to protect each other.
This virus is a proven killer. Shelby County has recorded triple digit cases in 10 of the last 14 days. And nearly 150 residents have died in less than three months. Canceling the classic is a big deal – and a costly one. But Jones and 9 council members are making public health their top priority. Good for them. And that’s my point of view.
