Wednesday, June 10, 2020

Greg Glassman's George Floyd Comments and CrossFit


Greg Glassman has resigned as CEO of CrossFit after racially charged comments regarding the murder of George Floyd. Racism and prejudice are so pervasive in society, that even a sporting activity can to be free from it. The comments were expressed during a call with gym owners. Many were asking why a statement was not made about the murder, which has sparked large demonstrations around the USA. Police violence and racial profiling have become more vicious over the past decades in American law enforcement. Glassman stated " why should I mourn him?" when speaking with affiliate gym owners. He further claimed that Floyd 's murder was not about race and that it was a cover-up to hide money laundering. This is nothing more than an unproven conspiracy theory. Reading these comments it seems obvious what side of the political spectrum Greg Glassman is on. Other companies make statements, however they seem hollow if they are not devoted to improving human resources or diversifying their workforce. Politics has unfortunately spilled into every area of life, so avoiding controversial topics is inevitable. Gyms have been dropping CrossFit affiliations since his tweets and Glassman denies that he hold racist sentiment.His criticism of Black Lives Matter and George Floyd are not the only racially charged statements he made. Greg Glassman also said that COVID-19 was created in a Wuhan lab. The racist conspiracy theory was been expressed by President Donald Trump. More fall out from his tweets has occurred with gyms ending partnerships. CrossFit may see financial struggles due to its former CEO's racial bias.  

Wednesday, June 3, 2020

Wear A Mask To Protect Health


Some countries may decide to reopen to save their economies. Doing this puts public health at risk. There needs to be a clear indication that the COVID-19 pandemic has subsided. Testing and ventilators must be widely available before all public accommodations are back on a normal schedule. There is risk even when there is partial reopening. Wearing a mask does not only protect yourself it prevents others from being infected. It is known that the elderly and people with respiratory conditions are at risk, but some children can be vulnerable too. There are indications that COVID-19 may possibly induce kawasaki disease in some children. A mask can prevent pathogens from being released to another person. The only way lockdowns will end is when medicines become available and infection rates are reduced. Following social distancing, practicing basic hygiene, and wearing a mask in public will ensure lockdowns will come to an end. Protests against measures are only stopping progress. Long term solutions should include universal healthcare, the construction of more hospitals, and pandemic emergency programs.  

Wednesday, May 27, 2020

Deaths From COVID-19 Reach 100,000 in The US


The COVID-19 pandemic has shown how vulnerable healthcare systems are around the world. The US has seen 100,000 deaths and the number could increase if measures are not taken to stop the spread. Anti-lock down protests have pressured state governments to reopen, when the disease had not been controlled.The elderly and people with preexisting conditions are especially vulnerable. Social distancing, the wearing of masks, and lock downs must continue to ensure preservation of public health. To prevent further economic strain universal basic income must be implemented to prevent the US population becoming financially insecure. The pandemic also is the best argument for the establishment of a universal healthcare system. Private health insurance has failed to protect the US citizen during a global health emergency. A logical solution would be to have medicare for all as an economic and public safety measure for possible pandemics in the future. These death could have been prevented if enough ventilators and masks were produced prior to the World Health Organization declaration of pandemic emergency. Opening up too soon could result in a second wave. Testing still is not widely available. If proper public health measures are not put into place,deaths may rapidly increase.      

Tuesday, March 10, 2020

Coronavirus May Effect the 2020 Olympics


There has been a coronavirus outbreak that spread throughout the world. What started in Wuhan, China quickly became a public health issue. Deaths have been increasing with medical professionals rushing to find a vaccine. Italy now is under full quarantine. The origins of the virus are unknown, but some speculate that it has come from the trade of exotic animals. Public gatherings and events are being curtailed to stop the spread. The Olympics could either be delayed or most likely cancelled if the coronavirus is not under control. This year's Olympics is going to take place in Tokyo. It would be the first time since 1964 that Japan hosted the Olympics. Sports fans may find themselves disappointed seeing as Japan has a high rate of coronavirus infection. Quarantines, travel restrictions, and public health measures have been imposed by various nations. If more is not done this has the potential to be a dangerous pandemic. There are basic actions that people can do to fight the virus. Hand washing and staying home when sick can be useful preventative measures. The challenge is staying away from large public gatherings. Fans and athletes may have to accept that the Olympics may be cancelled if the coronavirus cannot be dealt with. The World Health Organization continues to look for solutions. The Olympics are months away so there is a possibility they can go ahead with out complications.