In the small community of Maple Grove, Alabama, everyone knows Linda Thompson. She runs the local convenience store, a modest establishment marked by a bright neon “OPEN” sign. When customers enter, Linda greets them with a warm, “Hey there, how are you?” and follows up with a crucial question: “Have you received your vaccine yet?” (This friendly manner is typical of many genuine Southerners and isn’t tied to social status or education).
Linda has emerged as a local champion for COVID-19 vaccinations. Together with county official Sarah Johnson, she has managed to vaccinate an impressive 94% of the town’s roughly 400 residents, with the vaccination rate soaring to 100% among those aged 65 and older.
“We’re in this rural area, and we’ve got to fight for our lives with COVID changing everything,” she shared in a documentary featured by The New Yorker. Sarah adds, “I felt compelled to act because the government hasn’t done enough in this community, which is predominantly Black. It often feels like we’re overlooked.”
Maple Grove lacked a vaccination clinic, and the nearest one was a daunting 39 miles away—many residents don’t have access to transportation. So, Linda and Sarah joined forces to set up a pop-up clinic in their town, but they needed at least 40 people committed to getting vaccinated before the clinic could come.
Determined, Linda began reaching out. “I’m working on organizing the COVID-19 vaccine,” she would say, trying to gauge interest. She even drove through neighborhoods, honking her horn and inviting residents to sign up. Linda told MSNBC, “I spoke with everyone who came into the store… stressing how vital it was for them to get vaccinated.”
Many in the community had lost loved ones to the virus. “So many have lost their siblings, parents, and friends,” she relayed to The New Yorker. But Linda was resolute about not losing anyone else in her community. The exact number of lives she may have saved through her efforts remains unknown.
What Made Linda So Effective?
“It’s in my heart to do what it takes to help others,” Linda explained to The Montgomery Advisor. Documentarian Jeremy S. Levine noted on MSNBC, “While tensions run high, Linda approaches people with empathy, answering questions and sharing laughs. I’ve never seen anyone so adept at convincing others.”
She recognized the severity of the situation and made sure her neighbors understood the importance of vaccination. “I didn’t face resistance; people were willing to work with me,” she said. However, she encountered individuals with legitimate concerns stemming from historical injustices in medical practices affecting the Black community, including the infamous Tuskegee syphilis study. “Some expressed their fears about getting vaccinated,” she noted.
So, how did she achieve a vaccination rate of 94% in a state where the overall rate hovers around a low 36.6%? “I’ve invested time in the community over the years, and they trust me,” she said. Linda’s established relationships and her reputation as a dedicated community member made a significant difference.
Beyond her dedication, her kindness and approachability set her apart. She engages with humor and does not pressure anyone. “I treat them with kindness,” she emphasized. “I don’t force them into anything.” As Levine remarked, “She never belittles anyone, which is a refreshing change from the usual confrontational approach.”
Linda knew her community well and showed genuine concern for their health. “She meets people with love,” the documentary team mentioned.
Lessons to Take Away
Linda Thompson’s approach serves as a reminder that we might benefit from being more like her. The vaccination debate has grown increasingly polarized. In my own experience, I’ve reacted dismissively towards those hesitant about vaccines, blocking individuals who disagree with me. In contrast, Linda managed to navigate opposition with grace and understanding.
Perhaps it’s time for more compassion and patience. It’s challenging to empathize with those who hold different views, yet listening and engaging with kindness might be the key. Linda listened, she cared, and ultimately, she saved lives.
Vaccinations as a Civil Rights Matter
Furthermore, we must recognize that access to COVID-19 vaccinations is a civil rights issue. Media discussions have highlighted vaccine hesitancy within Black communities, which have suffered disproportionately during the pandemic. However, the focus should also be on accessibility.
Many residents in Maple Grove wanted the vaccine but faced logistical hurdles. “They were surprised how many wanted to get vaccinated but couldn’t due to transportation issues,” said Levine.
How many other rural communities are experiencing similar barriers? For instance, in South Carolina, where the overall vaccination rate stands at 46.6%, some predominantly Black counties show significantly lower rates—Bamburg County at 43.25% and Colleton County at only 42%. The difference in percentages can be life or death for individuals needing access.
Maybe, like Linda, we should strive to be kinder and take greater initiative in our communities instead of resorting to hostility. Recognizing that vaccination rates may stem from more than just hesitancy is crucial. The right to easily accessible, free COVID-19 vaccines is a matter of civil rights, and it deserves to be treated with the seriousness it warrants.
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