Dear CCNM administration, 

 

Firstly, we would like to make it very clear that we write this letter with the utmost respect, compassion and empathy for all those reading it, and hope that we deliver our message with the utmost professionalism as well. We write this letter with intention to make an appeal for and illustrate the scientific truths and data surrounding COVID-19 related measures ongoing on campus, while simultaneously encouraging the cessation of the practice of what we believe to be political-health theatre, referring to the continual perpetuation of a state of emergency through implementation of mask and vaccine mandates. We will make the argument that mask wearing should not be mandated on campus, perhaps with the exception of the RSNC in order to be in line with provincial guidelines. Moreover, that most if not all COVID-19 related measures and policies should be made null immediately, particularly the spectacularly failing and extraordinarily discriminatory vaccine mandate and passport system.  

 

We concede that in some circumstances and environments, using N95 grade masks that are properly fitting and are worn learnedly by all users, may be beneficial in blocking transmission of the virus. However, many real-world outcomes and studies have nonetheless demonstrated that mask mandates have not been effective in meaningfully stopping transmission among the general public (Alfelali, et al., 2019; Kozlowski, et al., 2020; Bundgaard, et al., 2021; Guerra & Guerra, 2021; Schauer, et al., 2021; Marchant, et al., 2022). Furthermore, masks seem to be also causing many deleterious side-effects amongst chronic wearers, such as verbal and emotional facial recognition issues, communication perturbations, bacterial and fungal infections, toxins found within the masks themselves, and even hypoxia leading to unfavourable effects on hemoglobin (Gori, et al., 2021; Juhasz, et al., 2021; Keri, et al., 2021; Olisova, et al., 2021; Park, et al., 2021 Setia, et l., 2021; Stanbouly & Chuang, 2021; Verleysen, et al., 2022). Most provincial governments within Canada have now deemed it acceptable to drop mask mandates province wide, including in schools. Thus, there is no reason why CCNM should maintain that same mandate while the chief medical officer of health deems it unnecessary.

 

While masking is now optional to everyone in the vast majority of public spaces, mandating masking at school is raising a big question; is it worth it? If not, it is hindering our ability to have normal human interactions with our peers- something we all have missed greatly over the last two years. We know that it will be more difficult to create bonds with people while talking to through a mask that prevents us from showing and understanding emotion, empathy, and detecting verbal and facial cues from others. Furthermore, it’s reasonable to assume that many CCNM community members, students particularly, will be socializing outside of the four walls of the college, maskless, therefore totally nullifying the apparent rationale of protection and caution that CCNM is attempting to maintain with their mandates. We will hopefully and presumably be preventing transmission on campus by masking, but then when we socialize outside of campus, we will be “spreading” the virus between one another, making the mask mandate on campus almost completely null and void. So, perhaps the best decision here is to drop the mandate, and anyone who would like to remain more cautious may do so by putting their mask on anywhere they’d like while maintaining distance. This will allow personal choice and individuality to reassume the role that we as NDs hold to such a high regard, as well as awareness towards one’s own health and limitations. 

Of significant note, we must mention that many students have been very turned off by the rude and condescending security guard, or rather, compliance officer, who seems rather over-joyed telling us how to wear our masks. Meanwhile, this gentleman is in direct contravention of CCNM’s own mask policy, which is to wear a medical mask or N95 and not a cloth mask. Students who innocently forget to put a mask on right away upon entrance into the school are barked at and made to feel inferior by this gentleman. We believe there is a much better way for this employee to approach the duties that come with his position as compliance officer.

 

With respect to the discriminatory, non-inclusive, and privacy breaching vaccine policy on campus, the data has shown for a while now that vaccinated people with two or three doses can still get infected, transmit, and be hospitalised by the virus. This contravenes the justification for vaccine passports and mandates, especially by a naturopathic medical school of all places- what irony. Both cases and hospitalizations in Ontario roughly reflect the exact same proportion of individuals vaccinated and not vaccinated within the general population. In fact, boosted individuals actually disproportionately outnumber unvaccinated individuals as far as cases and hospitalizations go (https://covid-19.ontario.ca/data Therefore, discriminating against students who chose not to take the risk of vaccination is totally void of reason, rationale and is simply uncalled for. It lacks empathy, compassion, and inclusivity- some of the virtues that we in the naturopathic medical community pride ourselves on. Making unvaccinated students get tested is totally unjustified and also creates further divide in our community, as well as making it publicly known who is and is not vaccinated, which is a definite and unethical breach of privacy. Moreover, the requirement to be vaccinated, especially without honouring genuine exemption to boot, in order for students to enter the fitness center seems to be a further hypocrisy. To deny students their equal right to apply for in campus rooms, or access all facilities on campus, and more importantly the right to accessible exercise equipment seems to totally contravene the principles that are taught at CCNM of physical and mental well-being, as well as equity for all and inclusivity. 

 

Of note, the University of Toronto also dropped their vaccine mandate after being hit with various human rights complaints (https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/university-of-toronto-hit-with-human-rights-complaint-rescinds-vaccine-mandate/?utm_source=top_news&utm_campaign=canada

 

“Vaccine mandates, including those recently renewed by Ontario universities, are scientifically questionable, ethically problematic, and misguided”. This is a passage featured on the University of Toronto's law faculty website (https://www.law.utoronto.ca/events/unintended-consequences-covid-19-vaccine-mandates-why-they-may-cause-more-harm-good 

 

            U of T also has abandoned UCheck, which is their health screening and contact tracing program. Furthermore, U of T states that masks will be required, only when physical distance of two metres cannot be maintained, until June 30. Furthermore, they recommend medical masks, but do not require them (https://www.utoronto.ca/utogether/covid-19-planning-update  

Ontario’s top doctor has state that vaccine policies at post-secondary institutions have served their purpose and should be dropped, thus, to drop vaccine policies would be in line with the chief medical officer of health as well as the University of Toronto.

 

We would like to now bring to light a brilliant recently published meta-analysis done by The Johns Hopkins Institute for Applied Economics, looking at lockdowns and its effect on COVID-19 mortality within Europe and America over the span of the last year and a half. It was concluded by Herby and colleagues (2022) that non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs), including lockdowns and associated policies such as masking, social distancing and restriction of movement and gatherings, did not have an appreciable or impactful effect on COVID-19 mortality rates. “Studies examining the relationship between lockdown strictness (based on the OxCGRT stringency index) find that the average lockdown in Europe and the United States only reduced COVID-19 mortality by 0.2% compared to a COVID-19 policy based solely on recommendations. Shelter-in-place orders (SIPOs) were also ineffective. They only reduced COVID-19 mortality by 2.9%.” “Lockdowns (compared to no lockdowns) also do not reduce COVID-19 mortality.” Our public health officials and policy makers like to repeatedly proclaim that they follow the science. However, it has become apparent that at this point in time, they are no longer doing as they proclaim. 

 

The listed students and community members who signed this petition implore CCNM administration to have an open, inclusive and welcoming mind toward positive change and consider reviewing their approach toward these policies, as they are not inclusive of everyone’s beliefs. We are a diverse community, with different backgrounds and faith systems. Each one of us has experienced a brutal past two years filled with fear, anxiety, depression and despair. It is time to be more hopeful and move forward towards a brighter tomorrow, especially given the fact that we know a lot more about this virus and how it has evolved. The virus has become less lethal as time passes which is in perfect congruency with the classical theory of viral evolution in that the virus wants to stay alive and continue to infect people, so it would be in its best interest to become less lethal instead of killing the host and perishing with it. Furthermore, we have vaccines available for those who want it, many early treatment and prophylactic drugs and medications, as well as knowledge of what nutraceuticals are associated with a less severe COVID-19 disease course. 

 

We appreciate and understand that some individuals are wearier and more cautious when it comes to COVID-19, and it’s their absolute right to maintain caution. However, it is our belief that at this point in time, personal responsibility must reign supreme once again. As naturopathic minded people, we know that what is good for one person, may not be good for another. Individualized care is the pinnacle of our philosophy. Every person is unique, and that is why we believe that at this point in time, people need to do what is best for their own well-being, whatever that may entail. In our case, it means living like healthy humans again. 

 

All of us, unvaccinated and vaccinated students and community members alike, have had an abysmal last two years, and we deeply believe that to be part of the CCNM and the naturopathic medical community is a badge of honour to wear with pride, and we shouldn’t have to jeopardize our integrity and authenticity for policies that are still being applied by the school even when the government that first mandated them has lifted all restrictions. No one should have to choose between their own physical and mental health, and the ability to receive the education that they need to become a naturopathic doctor and help thousands of people attain real health. To be part of the CCNM and naturopathic medical community also means to be open minded, to have inclusive dialogue, respect the opinions of all, and to live in peace and harmony even with those we disagree with. The best way to move ahead is to hear out all parties involved. Most of us, if not all, chose this profession out of passion for the true, genuine, and real healthcare. We believe in the innate healing abilities that the human body possesses and the endless resources that nature provide us with. Our lungs are made to breath fresh air, our immune system is made to be infected so that it learns and fights back better the next time. We can only be good naturopathic doctors if we are authentic in what we believe and ethical in how we practice. 

 

Lastly, we would like to make an appeal to the Naturopathic Doctor’s Oath that is beautifully displayed on the wall at CCNM. 

I dedicate myself to the service of humanity as a practitioner of the art and science of naturopathic medicine.

By precept, education and example, I will assist and encourage others to strengthen their health, reduce risks for disease, and preserve the health of our planet for ourselves and future generations.

I will continually endeavour to improve my abilities.

I will conduct my life and practice of naturopathic medicine with integrity and freedom from prejudice.

I will keep confident what should not be divulged.

I will honor the principles of naturopathic medicine:

First, to do no harm.

To co-operate with the healing powers of nature.

To address the fundamental causes of disease.

To heal the whole person through individualized treatment.

To teach the principles of healthy living and preventative medicine.

With my whole heart, before these witnesses, as a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, I pledge to remain true to this oath.

 

“I will conduct my life and practice of naturopathic medicine with integrity and freedom from prejudice.” This is a key line, as future naturopathic doctors, we need to honour and practice with genuine integrity and not be muzzled by politicians or political correctness. Our main priority should be the wellbeing of our patients who trust us enough to put their lives in our hands. 

“I will keep confident what should not be divulged.” This is imperative, as the college is making it very easy for the community to see which students are vaccinated and are not by having different testing requirements prior to entering campus. This is clearly breaching this tenant.

“To cooperate with the healing powers of nature.” Viruses exist in nature. By continuing to vehemently encourage and coerce community members into vaccination, and while mandating mask wearing and distancing, how are we allowing our bodies to naturally develop immunity and resilience to the virus? Is this not a fundamental principle of our philosophy?

 

With great respect, we truly hope that the CCNM decision makers appeal to our pleas, and together, we can present a united front and lead the way to better health. 

 

Thank you 

 

Citations 

 

Alfelali, M., Haworth, E. A., Barasheed, O., Badahdah, A. M., Bokhary, H., Tashani, M., Azeem, M. I., Kok, J., Taylor, J., Barnes, E. H., el Bashir, H., Khandaker, G., Holmes, E. C., Dwyer, D. E., Heron, L., Wilson, G. J., Booy, R., & Rashid, H. (2019). Facemask versus No Facemask in Preventing Viral Respiratory Infections During Hajj: A Cluster Randomised Open Label Trial. SSRN Electronic Journal. https://doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.3349234 

Bundgaard, H., Bundgaard, J. S., Raaschou-Pedersen, D. E. T., von Buchwald, C., Todsen, T., Norsk, J. B., Pries-Heje, M. M., Vissing, C. R., Nielsen, P. B., Winsløw, U. C., Fogh, K., Hasselbalch, R., Kristensen, J. H., Ringgaard, A., Porsborg Andersen, M., Goecke, N. B., Trebbien, R., Skovgaard, K., Benfield, T., . . . Iversen, K. (2021). Effectiveness of Adding a Mask Recommendation to Other Public Health Measures to Prevent SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Danish Mask Wearers. Annals of Internal Medicine, 174(3), 335–343. https://doi.org/10.7326/m20-6817 

Gori, M., Schiatti, L., & Amadeo, M. B. (2021). Masking Emotions: Face Masks Impair How We Read Emotions. Frontiers in Psychology, 12. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.669432 

Guerra, D.D, Guerra, D, J. Mask mandate and use efficacy for COVID-19 containment in US States. (2021). International Research Journal of Public Health, 55. https://doi.org/10.28933/irjph-2021-08-1005                                                                   

Herby J, Jonung L, Hanke SH. A literature review and meta-analysis of the effects of lockdowns on covid-19 mortality. The Johns Hopkins Institute for Applied Economics, Global Health, and the Study of Business Enterprise . January 2022. 

Juhasz, M., Zachary, C., Kessler, R., & Cohen, J. (2021). Mask Use During the COVID-19 Pandemic Causing Undesirable Post-Operative Complications. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 20(9), 1013–1014. https://doi.org/10.36849/jdd.5918 

Keri, V. C., Kumar, A., Singh, G., Mandal, A., Ali, H., Ranjan, P., & Wig, N. (2021). Pilot study on burden of fungal contamination in face masks: need for better mask hygiene in the COVID-19 era. Le infezioni in medicina, 29(4), 557–561. https://doi.org/10.53854/liim-2904-8 

Kozlowski, D. (2020). Physical interventions to interrupt or reduce the spread of respiratory viruses. International Journal of Evidence-Based Healthcare, 10(2), 159–161. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1744-1609.2012.00268.x      

Marchant, E., Griffiths, L., Crick, T., Fry, R., Hollinghurst, J., James, M., Cowley, L., Abbasizanjani, H., Torabi, F., Thompson, D. A., Kennedy, J., Akbari, A., Gravenor, M. B., Lyons, R. A., & Brophy, S. (2022). COVID-19 mitigation measures in primary schools and association with infection and school staff wellbeing: An observational survey linked with routine data in Wales, UK. PloS one, 17(2), e0264023. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0264023 

Olisova, O., Teplyuk, N., Grekova, E., & Lepekhova, A. (2021). Dermatoses caused by face mask wearing during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 35(11). https://doi.org/10.1111/jdv.17546 

Park, S. R., Han, J., Yeon, Y. M., Kang, N. Y., & Kim, E. (2021). Effect of face mask on skin characteristics changes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Skin research and technology : official journal of International Society for Bioengineering and the Skin (ISBS) [and] International Society for Digital Imaging of Skin (ISDIS) [and] International Society for Skin Imaging (ISSI), 27(4), 554–559. https://doi.org/10.1111/srt.12983 

Schauer, S. G., Naylor, J. F., April, M. D., Carius, B. M., & Hudson, I. L. (2021). Analysis of the Effects of COVID-19 Mask Mandates on Hospital Resource Consumption and Mortality at the County Level. Southern medical journal, 114(9), 597–602. https://doi.org/10.14423/SMJ.0000000000001294 

Setia, R., Dogra, M., Handoo, A., Yadav, R., Thangavel, G. P., & Rahman, A. E. (2021). Use of face mask by blood donors during the COVID-19 pandemic: Impact on donor hemoglobin concentration: A bane or a boon. Transfusion and Apheresis Science, 60(4), 103160. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.transci.2021.103160 

Stanbouly, D., & Chuang, S. K. (2021). What are the Psychosocial Consequences of Chronic Mask-Wearing in the COVID-19 Pandemic? Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 79(9), 1815–1816. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.joms.2021.04.014 

Verleysen, E., Ledecq, M., Siciliani, L., Cheyns, K., Vleminckx, C., Blaude, M. N., de Vos, S., Brassinne, F., van Steen, F., Nkenda, R., Machiels, R., Waegeneers, N., van Loco, J., & Mast, J. (2022). Titanium dioxide particles frequently present in face masks intended for general use require regulatory control. Scientific Reports, 12(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-022-06605-w