PUBLISHED: Wednesday, March 18, 2020

The City of Beacon sent this awareness piece issued by Dutchess County out to the media, to help spread the word and increase comfort levels as people do their thing to protect themselves. You can see more information like this at DutchessNY.gov/coronavirus

From the flyer:

Viruses don’t discriminate, and neither should we. Learn more about coronavirus and the stigma that comes with it.

Coronavirus Doesn’t Recognize Race, Nationality, or Ethnicity

2019 novel coronavirus started in Wuhan, China. That’s just geography. Having Chinese ancestry - or any other ancestry - does not make a person more vulnerable to this illness.

Wearing A Mask Does Not Mean A Person Is Ill

People wear masks for a variety of reasons, including to avoid pollen and air pollution and for cultural and social reasons. We should not judge someone for wearing a mask or assume they are sick.

You Can Interrupt Stigma. Start By Sharing Accurate Information

Avoid spreading misinformation. Stay informed through reputable, trusted resources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
New York State Department of Health
Dutchess Country Department of Behavioral & Community Health

Speak Up If You Hear, See, Or Read Misinformation Or Harassment

Gently correct the false information, and remind the speaker: Prejudiced language and actions make us all less safe. If a serious harassment occurs, consider reporting it.

Show Compassion And Support For Those Most Closely Impacted

In schools and workplaces, create learning opportunities for students and staff that dispel racist and misinformed ideas. Listen to, acknowledge and, with permission, share the stories of people experiencing stigma, along with a message that bigotry is not acceptable in your community.

More information can be found at DutchessNY.gov/Coronavirus or via the Coronavirus Hotline, (845) 486-3555