May 20, 2021
Survey launched to ask Calgarians their opinions on wearing face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic
Calgary, AB – UCalgary researchers are surveying Calgarians to find out if they are choosing to wear face masks as protection from COVID-19 or not, and why.
The survey is open to all Calgarians over the age of 18, and researchers want to hear from Calgarians of all races, genders, and backgrounds, from all areas of the city. They hope to receive at least 1000 responses.
“We are asking, ‘What are the behaviours or reasons that are driving that decision to not wear a mask?’ It’s important for us to understand these behaviours for public safety in terms of reducing spread of the virus, but also because of the angst that it causes Calgarians and business owners, and the pressure that it puts on city officials.”
Dr. Katrina Milaney, associate professor, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary
Understanding citizens’ motivations for their choices is at the top of mind for researchers and City of Calgary officials as anti-mask rallies continue in the city on a regular basis, and growing refusal to adhere to The City’s face coverings bylaw has led City council to consider an increased fine of $500 for non-compliance.
“There are lots of rules we have to follow and things that we have to do as citizens to make sure that we’re safe, and that our neighbours and communities are safe,” Milaney says. “I’m curious about why people are landing on this idea of a mask as a thing that they’re resistant to.”
The data from this study will help The City of Calgary develop more effective communications about the value and importance of mask wearing to help protect the local community.
“Mask wearing continues to play a significant role in reducing the spread of COVID-19. Although support for the practice is strong, not everyone supports The City’s Face Coverings Bylaw,” says Krista Ring, manager of web, research and projects at The City of Calgary.
“It is more important than ever to make objective and fact-based decisions in government. Being able to accurately reflect back citizen perspectives to our City administration, elected officials, and Calgary’s citizens creates transparency and accountability as well as building trust.”
Krista Ring, manager of web, research and projects, The City of Calgary
Interested Calgarians can visit w21c.org/face-masks to access the survey.
Katrina Milaney is an associate professor in the Department of Community Health Sciences at the Cumming School of Medicine (CSM) and a member of the O’Brien Institute for Public Health and the Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute at the CSM.
Urban Alliance is a strategic partnership between The City of Calgary and University of Calgary to promote the seamless transfer of cutting-edge research between The City and the university, for the benefit of all our communities. Learn more about the Urban Alliance
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