Connecting during COVID-19 — Reflections from Campus Ambassadors
Victoria Haldane
University of Toronto PHA Campus Ambassador
This is the view from the window where I now spend my days on calls, attending lectures, and working. I’m grateful for this spot, and for safe shelter, where I can watch this tree and the sky. This view has made me think a lot about the word ‘connection.’ The emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus has connected us globally as we face a new shared challenge and threat to health and well-being. Yet, the physical distancing measures necessary to slow down the pandemic have disconnected us from each other in ways we can’t ignore. We’ve collectively missed birthdays, special moments and celebrations. Heartbreakingly, we have not been able to hold each other in our grief.
As we reckon with a physical disconnection from each other, perhaps it’s time to reinvest in our connection with nature. Watching the world outside my window turn green, I’m reminded of the joy, hope and solace to be found by connecting with the Earth. For me, part of honouring this connection is a renewed commitment to working with others to protect people, animals and the planet. In this commitment, I’ve found solidarity and new connections. As the pandemic shines a light on the vast inequities in our communities, I’ve been inspired by those collaborating and creating a more equitable world during the COVID-19 response. From my local ‘neighbourhood pod’ where you can drop off supplies for those in need, to community initiatives that help seniors get groceries, there has been an outpouring of effort to ensure connection and mutual aid. This commitment to equity and connection must be carried forward and expanded towards a world where we act in ways that respect the fundamental links between humans and our environment.
Planetary health offers us a paradigm through which to move onwards and guide our actions as we move from pandemic response to recovery. I encourage other students to learn, collaborate and take action towards embedding a planetary health lens in their research approaches and framing of solutions. Even during this time of separation, we can forge connections and equip ourselves with a mindset that serves people and the planet.
