Mayor Lori Lightfoot says that, with Chicago now in a “second surge” of coronavirus cases, restrictions could soon be tightened if people don’t stop acting like things are back to normal. We asked Chicagoans what they think about that prospect. Some answers have been condensed and lightly edited for clarity.
“I think that maybe the city shouldn’t have loosened restrictions on bars and restaurants. It sends the wrong message as well as being an avenue for the virus to spread.” — Mark Simons
“I’m extremely concerned that CPS wants to bring children and staff back when we’re in a second surge.” — Dana Marie Miroballi
“This second surge was probably fostered by the occasional ‘Oh, a little get-together won’t hurt,’ or ‘Oops, forgot my mask, whatever’ or ‘you don’t seriously believe this coronavirus business is real?’ Or my favorite: ‘Cain’t nobody tell me what I can or cain’t do!’ Obviously, they all add up. The result is a second wave.” — Debrah Ross
“If that’s what it takes to get rid of this virus, so be it. People won’t abide by the rules of social distancing and wearing a mask to combat this horrible disease. Kids do better wearing the mask than adults!” — Von Davis
“As it should be. We are failing as a country to protect our most vulnerable citizens. What exactly does that say about us as a people?” — Amy Michelle
“Wearing a mask, social distancing and washing one’s hands.. If EVERYONE did this, we couldn’t be having this conversation. However, it is never too late to start. I say we all do that now and not a second later.” — Rosina Mostardini
“I manage a gym in the Loop. We follow all of the guidelines and enforce all of the rules. We are limping but still standing. Another shutdown? Wear your masks (correctly!), wash your hands, and stay apart! Why is this so difficult?” — Dennis Mac
“Most businesses can’t handle another shutdown. The average family can’t handle another shutdown mentally or financially. Our government can’t handle another shutdown. Is the government going to support everyone whose jobs are eliminated? Who is going to put food on our tables and pay our mortgages and other bills?” — Jennifer Schichner
“Last time I checked, we are all grown adults who can make our own decisions. Afraid? Don’t go out.” — Melanie Ruhe
“People refuse to follow the guidelines, and now we go backwards. This will never be over because people will not do something so simple as wear a mask.” — Mary Gabel Beasley
“I’m tired of COVID, too. And if everyone did what they were suppose to do, maybe this would be behind us.” — Nancy Marszewski
