Millennials experienced the horror of 9/11 as students and the uncertainty of the financial crisis as we entered the workforce. Now the coronavirus is altering American life as we raise families and run small businesses. Although millennials are not yet well represented in local government, the actions of elected officials in the coming weeks will have great bearing on our young families and small businesses.
Elected officials have urgently communicated the importance of social distancing. But the more nuanced message needed now is this: Some of our behavior must change immediately, but we cannot allow fear to control every aspect of our lives. We have a responsibility to try to limit the degree to which our local economy will be devastated by the coronavirus.
Some millennial-owned online businesses in Hamilton County are dealing with catastrophic drops in sales that will inevitably lead to layoffs. Others are already exploring emergency loan options from the Small Business Administration.
If you are financially secure or have a stable income, it is critical you continue to spend money. Continue to shop online – particularly think of supporting small e-commerce companies you have done business with. Reach out to local small businesses on Facebook and buy a gift card for future use. As Gov. Bill Lee encouraged the state, go out of your way to pick up food from locally owned restaurants.
In recent days, conservatives and liberals have considered a litany of ways to get direct cash payments to citizens. The U.S. House passed a coronavirus response last week, and the Senate is currently pondering a trillion dollar relief package.