Violet Affleck Advocates for Mask Mandates at United Nations
The daughter of actors Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner, Violet Affleck, delivered a compelling speech at the United Nations on March 12, 2024, urging world leaders to reinstate mask mandates to combat the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Speaking at the event titled “Healthy Indoor Air: A Global Call to Action,” the 19-year-old emphasized the persistent health threat posed by the virus, particularly in indoor environments.
Violet, a freshman at Yale University who previously contracted a post-viral condition, expressed her concerns while wearing a KN95 mask. She criticized leaders for prematurely relaxing mask mandates, arguing that the public is not adequately protected against the virus. “We are told by leaders across the board that we are the future,” she stated. “But, when it comes to the ongoing pandemic, our present is being stolen right in front of our eyes.”
Violet highlighted the dangers of airborne transmission, asserting that the population is largely ignoring the severity of long COVID. “Every subsequent infection increases the risk of long COVID and places people who already have it in greater danger,” she warned. She referenced research by Dr. Akiko Iwasaki from Yale, noting that long COVID has become the most common chronic illness among children aged five and younger.
The young advocate expressed her fears about the implications for children, stating, “I am terrified that children might spread the virus in schools and will not know a world without debilitating pain and exhaustion.” She called for action, expressing her frustration with adults who she feels are neglecting the health of younger generations. “It is a neglect of the highest order to look children in the eyes and say, ‘We knew how to protect you and we didn’t do it,’” she asserted.
Violet’s speech also touched on the historical context of public health initiatives, comparing the fight against COVID-19 to previous battles against indoor smoking. “Many of you fought the long and hard battle against indoor smoking,” she remarked. “We can create clean air infrastructure that is so ubiquitous and so obviously necessary, so that tomorrow’s children don’t even know why we need it.”
This isn’t the first time Violet has advocated for mask mandates. In 2023, she called for mandatory masks in Los Angeles hospitals and urged public officials to ensure access to Personal Protective Equipment in anticipation of future health crises. Her advocacy is deeply personal; according to the Mayo Clinic, a post-viral condition can result in long-term symptoms such as fatigue and cognitive difficulties.
As the oldest daughter of Affleck and Garner, who divorced in 2015, Violet has emerged as a prominent voice in public health discussions. She has also contributed to the Yale Global Health Review, showcasing her commitment to addressing issues related to COVID-19 and climate change.
By speaking at the United Nations, Violet Affleck has positioned herself as an influential advocate for public health, urging global leaders to take decisive action to protect future generations from the ongoing effects of the pandemic.
