On Tuesday, August 3rd, NYC’s Mayor Bill Blasio announced the “Key to NYC Pass” initiative. This is the nation’s first initiative requiring patrons who gather for indoor dining, gyms, concerts, and performances to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination. Proof of vaccination is required for the employees of these establishments as well. This initiative goes into effect on September 13th.
At the press announcement, it wasn’t clear if the unvaccinated could “test out” of this initiative with proof of a negative COVID-19 test.
With less than six weeks away, the chatter among residents of NYC has begun. Some fully support this initiative, some vehemently against it, and then you have those who are on the fence.
My Personal Thoughts.
As an NYC resident and as a mental health practitioner, I worry about the unintended ripple effects of such an initiative. As we attempt to successfully emerge from the pandemic, we must bend and flex in new ways. New Yorkers have answered and continue to answer this call. This initiative runs counter to the messaging of New York Tough & New York Strong. We are New York Tough & New York Strong because we come together.
The choice to vaccinate is a personal choice. Using one’s vaccine status to exclude and isolate them has the potential to cause real-life consequences for people. It may lead to other exclusionary measures or forms of stigmatization. I worry for the mental health needs of individuals who are starting to find their footing as they resume a life of normalcy, only to find the rug beneath them abruptly pulled away.
I’ve never been more embarrassed to be a New Yorker –Until Now.
I keep returning to de Blasio’s words during the conference. I’m most bothered by the two quotes below. Mayor de Blasio’s comments came across as divisive and totalitarian in nature. I’m sure that wasn’t his intent but by golly.
“So, today, I announce a new approach, which we’re calling the Key to NYC Pass. The key to New York City – when you hear those words, I want you to imagine the notion that because someone’s vaccinated, they can do all the amazing things that are available in this city. This is a miraculous place literally full of wonders. And, if you’re vaccinated, all that’s going to open up to you. You’ll have the key. You can open the door. But, if you’re un-vaccinated, unfortunately, you will not be able to participate in many things. That’s the point we’re trying to get across. It’s time for people to see vaccination as literally necessary to living a good and full and healthy life.”
Mayor Bill de Blasio
“We’ll be issuing a Mayoral Executive Order and a Health Commissioner’s Order – those are the legal tools necessary to implement this approach. And we know that this is what’s going to turn the tide. And we also know that people are going to get a really clear message – if you want to participate in our society fully, you’ve got to get vaccinated.”
Mayor Bill de Blasio
See de Blasio’s full press conference and transcript here.
To be clear, it’s not my intent to shyt on de Blasio but really highlight the nation’s first COVID exclusionary initiative and point out some potential missteps that may result from such an initiative.
What’s Next?
I’m not quite sure. Only time will tell. I will keep you updated. Until then, be safe and stay well.