Classism exposed for what it really is

Andy Cohen, Idris Elba, and Tom Hanks. Photo courtesy New York Post

Classism as we all know it has withheld a lot of opportunities from regular, American citizens. Recently the outbreak of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) has given citizens exposure to what classism really represents and who it aims to benefit—the rich.

The elites of the United States (celebrities, government officials, etc.) have received testing upon the news of the coronavirus outbreak, although some show no symptoms meaning they’re asymptomatic. The majority of the United States consisting of working-class people don’t have access to these tests and are being turned away due to not meeting eligibility requirements for examinations.

There are several questions on why so many high ranked politicians and celebrities are the only ones testing positive and Twitter user @ElijahSchaffer provides his opinion on this.

“How does someone in isolation like @HarveyWeinstein test positive,” @ElijahSchaffer said. “It all very strange, we are definitely missing key information here.” 

Although these thoughts are stemming from regular citizens, some celebrities like rapper Cardi B agree with it being a hoax and even believe that celebrities are getting paid to say they have it, which she expressed on an Instagram live. 

“Let’s say if I have Coronavirus right now how am I supposed to know I have it,” Cardi B said. “I’m starting to feel like y‘all ni**as is paying ni**as to say they got it.”

Classism is partially responsible as to why the country is confused right now and upset that wealthier people are being provided with testing versus those who aren’t as fortunate. Other celebrities such as Kevin Durant, Tom Hanks, and Idris Elba have also been tested positive and Elba has stated that he hasn’t shown symptoms.

In the light of this worldwide pandemic, more people are becoming frustrated with classism being the forefront of why symptomatic people have not received a test and asymptomatic people have. 

Twitter user @julianne_renes comments on Senator Rand Paul who has received positive test results but still shows no symptoms.

“I find it absolutely mind-boggling that a person who is exhibiting symptoms cannot get a coronavirus test, but someone who is asymptomatic can,” @julianne_renes said. “SMH. Classism at it’s finest.”

Political science student Macie Clayton explains how Covid-19 reassures what people have known for a long time.