I've been thinking about mask wearing a lot. For reasons that are probably not surprising, the mask is now a symbol and has been taken up by conservatives (and white supremacists, but there is really very little difference there) as a way to signal their rebellion & independence.
That is entirely logical, as I have said before, because it channels the white desire for invincibility, on the one hand, and disregard for collective care, on the other. Now, that being said, as an Indigenous person, for me, wearing a mask signals that I am aware of you.
That I care for you and recognize your humanity. It is a way for me to be in good relations with you and with your relatives, with your kin, your elders, whoever they may be. Me wearing a mask is me consenting to be in good relations with you. HOWEVER...
you, white person, refusing to wear a mask is you showing me (Indigenous person) that you care more about your white feelings and your white privilege than about being a relative to me. That says all I need to know about you.
