Dearborn Launching 'Mask Up' Campaign During Coronavirus Pandemic

DEARBORN, MI — Dearborn officials have launched the "Mask Up, Dearborn" campaign, encouraging residents to wear face coverings during the coronavirus pandemic to help slow the spread of the virus.

Several prominent local leaders and officials have participated in the social media campaign, which the city announced Friday, including Mayor John B. O’Reilly, Jr. and members of the Dearborn City Council.

“The increase of cases in the city is alarming,” O’Reilly said. “As a community, we must do everything in our power to mitigate the spread to the best of our ability, such as wearing a mask and practicing social distancing.”

Don't miss important updates from health and government officials on the impact of the coronavirus in Michigan. Sign up for Patch's daily newsletters and email alerts.

“We wanted to highlight how imperative it is that everyone does their part in slowing the spread of this disease,” said city councilmember Erin Byrnes, who spearheaded the initiative. “We all need to protect one another, and wearing a mask around others is an easy way to do that.”

The city said residents who use Facebook are encouraged to participate in the campaign by placing a “Mask Up, Dearborn” frame on a photo of themselves to help spread awareness and to emphasize the importance of mask-wearing, as well as following other vital public health guidelines.

Dearborn City Council President Susan Dabaja expressed her support for the campaign.

“This campaign is a great way for others to show that they care about each other and the community as a whole,” she said.

Dearborn has been seriously impacted by the disease, with the city’s cases being the second highest in Wayne County. During the week of Aug. 10, Dearborn made up about 23 percent of new cases of the coronavirus in the county, despite only being 5.4 percent of Wayne County’s population.

From Aug. 3 to Aug. 17, the city averaged about 20 cases per day.

Officials said residents are reminded that wearing a mask in public places is state- mandated, and that, while social gatherings are permitted, people who do not live in the same household must remain six feet apart to the extent possible.

Indoor gatherings must not exceed 10 people, and outdoor gatherings must not exceed 100 people. All gatherings must be designed in way to allow six feet between those attending, the city said. Residents should avoid large gatherings as much as possible, even outside, and wear a mask when they cannot maintain a six foot distance, officials said.