Wearing face masks has been a mandatory policy since the introduction of the National State of Disaster instituted at the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic in South Africa.

The state of disaster has now been lifted, however; mandatory mask wearing indoors has been moved under the National Health Act, making it a national policy indefinitely.

This is despite the attitude of most South Africans towards mask wearing. Most South Africans no longer wish to wear masks on a daily basis in public indoor spaces.

Despite aiding in the reduction of Covid-19 cases during the pandemic, mask wearing has created new health issues such as eye infections (due to moist breath traveling from the nose and mouth to the eyes), and breakouts and rashes on the skin of the face and neck.

They are largely unpleasant to wear, and reduce the level of enjoyment experienced when generally engaging in the public world, to the point where some would rather stay home than engage with the public.

We at The DJ Company believe that mask wearing should be made optional in all spaces. Our industry has been affected enough by the many regulations regarding public events. We would like to enjoy a good time with our cherished clients while making the most special days of their lives memorable, without having to reach up to our faces every few minutes to adjust our face masks. We want to laugh and smile again with no barriers between us.

We believe that those who are still concerned about the health risks associated with any and all relevant issues (such as Covid-19) should have the choice to opt to wear them, while respecting those who do not wish to.

If you support mask wearing made optional, please sign in favour of this petition, which will be sent through to Dear South Africa in aid of their recent call for comments against the new Health Act amendments.