There are about a million debates raging right now about how to handle the coronavirus.
Is widespread lockdown the right call or should we consider a herd immunity approach? Can coffee filters be appropriated as surgical masks? (No.) What should be considered “essential” work?
When it comes to the latter, it’s a pretty long list. And, believe or not, it’s getting longer. That’s because Toronto mayor John Tory designated two new job titles as critical to the city and beyond: Easter Bunny and Tooth Fairy.
Asked about declaring Easter Bunny & Tooth Fairy essential as NZ did. Confirmed of course the Easter Bunny & Tooth Fairy are essential workers in Toronto. Asked @fordnation to make sure they are essential provincewide as well. Thanks to everyone planning to #StayHome for Easter.
— John Tory (@JohnTory) April 7, 2020
If nothing else, it’s a playful way to promote staying at home during the first major long weekend of the year. There is now more pressure than ever for parents to keep up the charade of pretending rabbits lay eggs and fairies sneak coins under pillows.
As referenced by Tory, New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern made the announcement yesterday:
New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern confirms Easter Bunny is classed as an “essential worker” but it might be “difficult for the bunny to get everywhere” in current circumstances.
— Daniel Rosney (@DanielRosney) April 6, 2020
Tooth fairy also confirmed as an essential worker. pic.twitter.com/Jv6o4t2tkG
So there you have it. Two characters who since inception have had their existence doubted are now critical allies in the fight against a global pandemic.