COVID-19 is a rapidly spreading virus that is changing the world as we know it. As of October, over 1.2 million people have died from it worldwide. Face masks are required for safety everywhere you go. And despite all of this, sports continue. Thousands of football players stand on a field to knock each other around and score a touchdown. In practice and in games, no masks are worn. Again, in basketball, thousands of people sweat, yell, and hit each other for over an hour and a half, and the district allows it. But, they are reluctant to accept the arts.

This product has been handled with utmost safety: wearing masks at all times, social distancing, checking temperatures before rehearsal, and more. But still, they disagree. This is hypocrisy. This shows the treatment of the arts versus athletics. In order to stand up for the arts, we need to show not only this district but everyone what the arts truly mean to the people that pursue them and even to the people that care to watch.

The arts are a way of expression, it can be used by many people to find their way. Especially in times of COVID, we need this type of environment to go to. Children and teens are not receiving the amount of social interaction and engagement they need. This is where our performance comes in. This show, like many others, acts as a shelter and almost home for kids to come to. The play gives them friends to talk to and laugh with and also a stage to express themselves on.

Not only do the arts produce social skills, but ¨They engage many areas of the brain and also have far-reaching effects on the learner's mind.¨ (Jensen, 2001). After talking to teachers and students, it is seen that teens that are involved in the arts have a more creative mindset which can help them with many careers and schooling as well. The arts are key components in people's lives, and those components should not be shut out. This single Shakespearian play has shown to contribute many positive attributes in young adults as said before.

The ignorance that is shown towards the usefulness of the arts in social factors, mental factors, and even physical factors are profound. The District stated that the show will not go on due to safety precautions. They stated that they are not ready to go take that risk yet. But saying this, basketball is rolling in and they have said nothing about it. So, in turn, I strongly encourage each and every one of you to stand up for the arts and stand against the behavior of so many people towards the arts and this district! I would like everyone to acknowledge the hypocritical actions towards the arts and let our district understand that!