As we approach Christmas 2021, the Government and their blinkered scientists are – once again – trying to impose mask mandates upon us all. We must all HOLD THE LINE and keep on smiling free; non-compliance seems increasingly to be the only dissent our political leaders understand.
Although it is often not an easy task, it is important that we all strive to engage with family and friends who may not totally share our views about the ineffectiveness, and associated harms, of masking the healthy. There follows some tips that might increase the likelihood that any conversations you do have will encourage others to consider ditching the mask.
Scientific data is not sufficient to change the minds of those in favour of masks. What we need to do is engage people in a conversation that might increase their curiosity and open their minds, thereby making them more receptive to all the evidence suggesting masks are ineffective and do more harm than good.
TIP 1: Be kind.
Many people wear masks because they are scared or do not wish to be hassled. Therefore do not resort to verbal abuse or ridicule; no one likes to be told they are wrong, stupid or a ‘sheep’.
TIP 2: Search for areas of agreement.
Most of those wearing masks will not be totally on board with them – they will have doubts. Therefore try and find common ground, with comments and questions such as:
‘We are on the same side – we both want what’s best for our communities’
‘Has there been any aspect of the mask restrictions that you’ve not been 100% on board with?
‘What’s your take on those who wear masks when outside in the fresh air? Or wear them when alone in the car?’
TIP 3: Use questions to stimulate curiosity to find out more.
‘If a mandate or regulation was harming more people than it was helping, would you still comply with it?’
‘If you found out that the evidence that masks reduce viral transmission is very weak, and yet they cause distress to many people, would you still wear one?’
In response to the above conversation starters, if the person expresses some interest in finding out more, then – and only then – share one or more of the following links:
Our summary of the ineffectiveness of masks
Our page of harms associated with masks (first hand accounts)
To challenge the idea that masks provide reassurance or reduce fear, our piece in The Critic
Good luck 🙂
