NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The Tennessee State Conference NAACP is urging Governor Bill Lee and the state's mayors not to reopen the economy too soon, and to maintain the strongest protections possible as the COVID-19 pandemic continues.
"To open businesses now is to go blindly into the future," said Tennessee NAACP President Gloria Sweet-Love in a statement Thursday.
Sweet-Love adds that while Governor Lee's directives would allow the state's larger cities and metro areas to make their own decisions as to when they reopen, they still have concern that the governor's stance on reopening could cause a fracture of the stay-at-home and social distancing mandates.
"We're asking the governor to maintain state-wide restrictions on movement and interaction to protect the health and safety of residents in Tennessee," Sweet-Love said.
In their pleas to Governor Lee and the state's leaders, the NAACP is asking they consider the following before reopening the state:
- Ensure that aggressive testing and contact tracing are in place so new cases can be isolated and treated.
- Ensure the state has shown a sustained decrease in the number of new cases for a 14-day period.
Nashville Mayor John Cooper announced Thursday a phased reopening plan for Nashville and Davidson County. Governor Lee also announced Thursday the first steps to reopening the state, with restaurants opening in limited capacity next Monday, and retail stores next Wednesday.
What is the rebound?
As Middle Tennessee works to rebound from the impact of the Coronavirus, we want to help. Whether it's getting back to work, making ends meet during this uncertain time, or managing the pressure, we're committed to finding solution. In addition, we want to tell your stories of hope, inspiration, and creativity as Middle Tennessee starts to rebound.
Find more in the sections below
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Safely Back to School
How schools are changing, and what you can do to help your child get the most from their education, in-person or virtual -
Making Ends Meet
Find help on topics from rent to food to new belt-tightening techniques -
Managing the Pressure
Feeling isolated or frustrated? Learn ways to connect with people virtually, get counseling or manage your stress. -
Doing What’s Right
Keep track of the way people are spending your tax dollars and treating your community. -
State of Education
Find ways to cope with the new normal around schools and celebrate students’ success in the age of Coronavirus. -
We're Open Y'all
Support local businesses doing their best to stay open and serve their customers during Covid.
