10# Equality Behind the Mask

What COVID-19 Teaches Us About Integration

COVID-19 update: Anyone using public transport without wearing a mask faces a fine of between €50 and €500. We already know that. But now FFP2 masks are gradually being introduced.

These masks filter even the smallest particles more effectively, although their dense material also significantly increases breathing resistance. Doctors recommend wearing them for no longer than 75 minutes at a time.

Five masks for €20 from our trusted retailer – Amazon. At dm, two cost €4.95. And at the Lidl around the corner, you can buy 100 coffee filters for €0.45.

Everyone has a few shoelaces lying around at home.

Just kidding!

Anyway, after Bavaria's "grace period", fines will also be introduced for failing to wear these coffee filters.

And that's how the government makes its money.

After all, many freelancers and self-employed people whose businesses came to a standstill because of lockdown measures received financial assistance from the government.

That money has to come back somehow.

Understandable!

Germany is just a company, after all, and we're its employees.

What Discrimination Feels Like

Nevertheless, a mask like this does wonders for integration.

Just a year ago, Germany was deeply divided over its number-one controversial issue: the refugee debate.

And now?

Thanks to COVID-19, coexistence between Muslims and Christians has suddenly become much more pleasant.

We now know what discrimination feels like.

Being a stranger in your own country!

Like when we forget our mask at home and Aunt Hilde starts having a go at us on the suburban train, scolding us and staring as though we don't understand a word she's saying.

So social justice does exist after all!

Some pay, others collect – and in the meantime, Germany unites into one big multicultural mask-wearing community.

And Ayşe-Gül, with her face veil, doesn't look quite so "strange" anymore.

She was ahead of her time.

She's one of us!

Can the COVID-19 crisis teach us anything?

If so, it's this: Article 3 of Germany's Basic Law is absolutely damn right – all people are equal!

Anastasia Weimer