Burnaby politicians and B.C. health officials have been trying to rally around Asian business owners to save them from the devastating impact of coronavirus panic.
Burnaby Mayor Mike Hurley and B.C. Health Minister Adrian Dix visited Crystal Mall in Burnaby’s Metrotown area to combat false rumours about the coronavirus being spread in the shopping centre.
I wrote about how I have stepped up my visits to the Crystal Mall food court to show I have no fear of getting the virus, also known as COVID-19.
In response, a Crystal Mall food court vendor contacted me to unleash her fury about those who have spread these false rumours. I’m keeping her name private for fear of reprisals.
“I don't think the rumours that started all of this mess can rewind itself, but we do have high hopes that by next month all will be better,” wrote the vendor. “I don't wish scorn on anyone who dared to produce strong rumours, but at the same time, it is a despicable act.”
The vendor says business has been down significantly, especially during Lunar New Year, a time when business should be “booming.”
“It irritates me how people can believe such false news.”
One big issue is some people being actively coerced into staying home by panicked relatives.
“Since the initial rumour, it has been difficult in the Asian community to go just anywhere without being worrisome about other people and public areas,” the vendor said.
“My parents were also affected by it since our general age group in customers are mostly elderly. Most aren't able to come out to purchase food since their children persuade them not to go to Crystal Mall. For me, since I'm a first-generation Chinese-Canadian, I'm able to renounce these rumours as false. I understand the impact it has for actual immigrants who have immediate family in China not just in Wuhan but also in other provinces of China. At the same time, though, it is outrageous behaviour to start becoming hoarders when the risk here in Canada, especially Vancouver, is still relatively low. However, it is hard to convince people when they're already hysterical.”
B.C. health officials have been emphatic about the extremely low risk people face here in Metro Vancouver. Just make sure to keep washing your hands and don’t touch your face.
Come on, people, stop giving in to fear.
Follow Chris Campbell on Twitter @shinebox44.
