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Editorial: Respect is vital in these times

opinion editorial stock

We’re at an interesting point in time as we transition outside the worst of the pandemic to a hopeful return to normalcy.

Alberta’s Open For Summer plan took effect on Canada Day and mandated mask-wearing in indoor public spaces has been dropped by most municipalities, including the Town of Okotoks and most recently the City of Calgary on July 5.

It’s terrific news to know that Albertans have more than bent the curve of the third wave of the pandemic by respecting restrictions and taking advantage of the efficient vaccination programs in place.

As of the July 5 reporting, 73.4 per cent of eligible Albertans have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and crucially 48.4 per cent are now fully immunized with both doses which is very encouraging.

The reopening for some is moving too fast, for some it’s long past due that we lift restrictions. It’s important to have kindness, empathy and understanding for every viewpoint as every measure that’s been in place impacts each of us in unique ways.

When it comes to masks, many people will be glad to not have to wear them any more, while others won’t be in a rush to stop putting on face coverings.

Some who want to be protected through vaccines aren’t eligible to get them due to factors such as age or medical reasons and will choose to wear masks for the foreseeable future.

We all have different risk factors and levels of comfort with interaction right now and as we navigate through this period it’s essential to be respectful of one another’s choices.

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