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NAACP launches #maskonbako social media challenge

The goal is to encourage all to wear masks
Posted at 1:33 AM, Jul 12, 2020
and last updated 2020-07-12 04:40:47-04

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — As covid cases continue to rise across the country and in the area, the NAACP's chapter of Bakersfield is rolling out a new social media challenge called #maskonBako.

The idea is to get as many people in the community to wear masks in public spaces and spread awareness on social media.

The organization says getting involved in the challenge is easy by following these steps.

Simply wear a mask in a public space, take a picture, and upload it online with the hashtag #maskonBako.

The group says they want to remind the community that one does not have to show symptoms to be a carrier, but wearing a mask in public keeps others safe.

In Kern County, there have been over 6,000 cases and 97 deaths as of Saturday.

According to the Kern County Public Health Department officials expect to see an increase in cases.
The NAACP shares by getting everyone involved in Kern County can make a difference.

"We right now are moving backwards and I want us to enjoy our community without this pandemic," said Andrea Bagsby, the NAACP Health Chair.

"At the end of the day, your individual choices are going to affect where we go ten days, two weeks, and a month from now."

The NAACP is not the only social media campaign bringing awareness to slow the spread.

Governor Gavin Newsom’s Twitter and the CA Governors Instagram page has similar messages.

Each platform promoting the governor's wear a mask public awareness campaign that launched on July 2.

The group adds regardless of political opinions everyone can come together to make a difference.

"When I go to work it's not politics. I am a nurse and I work in covid units," Bagsby said. "It's not about politics but health and safety, that’s what it comes down to. There is no politics involved, but if you decide to involve politics that's a personal choice."

The NAACP is hoping to get at least 50 participants under the hashtag by the end of the weekend.