This archive report was first published on 22 May 2020.
Memorial Day, traditionally marking the unofficial start of summer, is taking on a new meaning this year as the country navigates the COVID-19 pandemic. With public health officials warning of the risks of large gatherings, many traditional events have been canceled or replaced with socially distant formats.
On Cape Cod, the annual Figawi sailboat race, which raises money for veterans, has been replaced with a virtual cocktail party. Organizers had initially considered allowing participants to sail despite the pandemic, but ultimately decided against it.
‘But as time went on and everybody learned more,’ said Shelley Hill, executive director of Figawi Charities, ‘that idea has gone away.’
Across the country, Memorial Day parades and ceremonies are being held with modifications. In Vidalia, Louisiana, a parade that dates back to 1867 will now be a motorcade with participants wearing masks and gloves. In Fort Walton Beach, Florida, a ceremony honoring fallen veterans will be livestreamed instead of being held in person.
‘It’s been really difficult for us to say, “We really don’t want you there,”’ said Tom Rice, chairman of the committee that sponsors the event. ‘So far, there’s been no blowback.’
Beaches are also reopening with restrictions. In Massachusetts, beaches will be allowed to reopen for swimming on Memorial Day, but volleyball is banned and sunbathers must place their towels 12 feet apart. In New York City, Mayor Bill de Blasio has opted to keep the city’s beaches closed over the weekend.
As the country struggles to balance summer fun with public health, many are finding creative ways to celebrate Memorial Day. In Portland, Maine, officials are preparing to block off streets to give restaurants more space for outdoor dining. In California, Governor Gavin Newsom has allowed beaches to reopen for ‘active use,’ but not for lounging on beach towels.
‘At a time when tens of thousands of people have been released from jails, why are we being told to arrest moms on beach blankets and seniors under umbrellas?’ asked Mayor Will O’Neill of Newport Beach, California. ‘There was no data or science supporting the decision.’
As the pandemic continues to evolve, Americans are finding ways to adapt and prioritize public health while still finding ways to celebrate the start of summer.
