Several states across the country have set up COVID-19 parameters for concert and sports venues. Most require proof of vaccination, or a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of the event. I agree with the vaccination mandate. In my opinion, if you refuse to present either one of those and do not want to have them done on sight, then you should not be allowed to attend the event.

According to USA Facts, 60.5% of California’s population is fully vaccinated against COVID-19 with one of the highest rates in the nation. This is impressive given our state’s population. 

Senior Jasmine Rico has already had experience with the mandates at music festivals. She has attended two separate raves in August, called Hard Summer and Beyond Wonderland. 

Rico said Beyond Wonderland had provided the entry requirements at the festival. One had to be fully vaccinated or provide a negative COVID-19 test 72 hours before the festival was set to begin. First doses of vaccinations were being given for free, and rapid tests were available for around $165. 

She also said that Beyond Wonderland was not giving refunds to the people who purchased the tickets because they were providing several accommodations on sight.

“I am already vaccinated, so it was pretty easy for me,” Rico said. 

 For those who did not want to take those precautions, it is more difficult. 

“I definitely felt safer with a vaccine requirement in place,” Rico said.

There has been a lot of controversy about how a vaccination mandate singles out those who do not want to get vaccinated. I personally am vaccinated, as are all of my friends and most of my family members. 

What I struggle with most is how people refuse to take the steps necessary to keep the public safe but still think they should be able to have a good time while putting others at risk.   

 One of the main arguments presented by people who do not wish to be vaccinated, is that it does not completely prevent someone from contracting COVID-19. The Center for Disease Control has stated that while someone might be fully vaccinated, it does not completely prevent that person from contracting the virus or one of its variants. The best plan of action is to not only be vaccinated, but to continue to wear a mask and socially distance. 

Although there needed to be a semi-return to normal at some point, returning at this time might have been just a touch  premature. While vaccination is a step in the right direction, there is still more that needs to be done to better protect everyone. We can start refusing entry or denying service for those who actively choose to not protect themselves and others by not wearing a mask or getting vaccinated. 

I miss how things used to be before the pandemic. I miss not having to wear a mask just as much as the next person. For me, the sooner we all band together, the sooner we can all be out of this very long, very awful nightmare.