Survey results from March and April, 2020

For many people, coloring served as the first introduction to how art impacts our world. Whether on plain paper or in coloring books, children experiment with mixing, outlining and blending to create what they see in their mind’s eye. For some lucky ones, the colors of the rainbow follow them into adulthood and provide an opportunity to bring joy in times of need.

Back in January when I thought about a new year full of experiences, this isn’t exactly what I was expecting. I envisioned my youngest child graduating from high school, parading across the stage while her dad and I cheered for her even though the administration said not to. I imagined adventures of summertime fun — the backyard bonfires, barbecues and outdoor excursions we all cherish. I imagined being an empty nester as my children went their separate ways, leaving JC and I to explore the new territory of being “just a couple” once more.

When the Anoka County Historical Society sent out our initial survey for COVID-19 in March, we didn’t anticipate a Phase II, let alone rounding the corner on creating a Phase III survey. By the results we’re receiving, most of Anoka County didn’t either.

By its very nature as a global pandemic, the coronavirus has reached into every country and crevice of our earth, unilaterally changing the lives of those in its wake. For many residents in Anoka County, the inconvenience of sheltering in place, receiving unemployment, or wearing a mask causes stress. The routine has shifted, work has changed, lifestyles shaken. For some, however, it has brought about an unmatched level of instability and worry.

The debate surrounding the definition of “essential worker” continues as Minnesotans wrestle with how to balance the physical health of our community with the economic health of the state and its residents. One photographer from Blaine has taken the conversation into her own hands, documenting the essential workers she sees.

American culture loves its fast cars, its freedom and its food. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 quarantine has taken a swipe at all three lifestyle pinnacles. But, as tradition would have it, the Anoka County community has fought back with resilience and innovation.

The present is the past of the future.

Right now, these simple words carry the weight of a global experience each of us views differently.

Documenting this situation as we live it presents an extremely rare opportunity to make use of social media and technology, as well as traditional writing and photography, to create a body of work future historians can use.