For the majority of this pandemic, while many have the ability to remain sheltered at home, essential workers have been left required to continue on with their work.
During these hard times, even non-medical essential workers have been risking their lives every day, contributing to the economy and well being of everyone during this pandemic.
Not being a doctor or nurse does not mean one is exempt from possibly being considered “essential.”
Essential workers include grocery store employees, public transit workers, safety and security workers, among others.
Many businesses have to stay open throughout the entirety of the lockdown to support those who are unable to leave the house or work.
Chrystian McClanahan, who works at a refinery in L.A. County, has remained at work since the very beginning of the lockdown.
“It has been very tiring, but it feels really good to be important,” McClanahan said.
The 23-year-old shared his experience with being an “essential worker,” while those who are unable to work are collecting unemployment benefits.
“It does not bother me. I am slightly jealous because I would have loved to sit home and get paid for it but being on unemployment would be a pay cut for me so I do not want anything to do with a pay cut,” McClanahan said.
The “Stay at Home” order has been in effect since early March in California. As of recent, businesses have begun the process of reopening.
The newest re-opening of our economy was that of some retail stores, local businesses such as salons, and limited dine-in at restaurants.
Sarah Castania who works at a restaurant in L.A. County shared her opinions on going back to work during this time.
“I am very nervous to return to work but also happy that we will get a sense of ‘normal’ again. I’m just hoping we have seen the worst of the coronavirus,” Castania said.
With many still people still experiencing financial stress, fears about the coronavirus still impact many. However, essential or nonessential, with so many businesses reopening, most of us will soon be returning to some sense of “normalcy.”