Covid -19 One year later

Photo Essay by Joseph Shaw

One year after the coronavirus pandemic hit the state, photojournalist Joseph Shaw took to the streets of Lewiston and Portland to document what he saw and ask some Mainers how they were doing, whether they felt optimistic about the future, and how they believed the government has handled the crisis.

**Abdulkerim Said, director New Mainers Health Initiative**

Now that we are one year into the pandemic, how are you feeling about the future for yourself and your family and community? Are you optimistic?
“Yes – I am optimistic because of the vaccine. The vaccine gives us optimism. Our optimism is high to get back to normal.”

How has this year been for you and the community?
“In terms of my personal life, I am well. I had my first dose of the vaccine and I will be getting my second dose today. As for the community, they suffer. People are recovering from what they have lost.”

Have you been satisfied with the state’s response?
“Not really no but we are seeing significant change in the state from the push we have done on the ground but the state of Maine can do more.”

**Shol Pasot, manager of the African Supermarket**

Now that we are one year into the pandemic, how are you feeling about the future for yourself and your family and community? Are you optimistic? “Yeah, I am watching the news, and keeping up with current events.”

How has this year been for you and the community?
“It’s been a very tough year. We are told to stay away from each other.”

Have you been satisfied with the state’s response? “Yes. I am happy with what they are doing.”

**Gael Taty, owner of G Painting & Services**

Now that we are one year into the pandemic, how are you feeling about the future for yourself and your family and community? Are you optimistic? “Because of the vaccine, I have faith that things will get better.”

How has this year been for you and the community?
“It has been really hard. We’ve all been confused and concerned. I didn’t know what to do. Now things are better and I hope they will get better and better.”

Have you been satisfied with the state’s response? “Yes, because of the Covid guidelines and precautions. As a business owner, it is not easy. Winter was a hard time. But I have had my 2 shots already. The state is doing a good job.”

**Gloriose Karumuna, owner of the Glory Store**

Now that we are one year into the pandemic, how are you feeling about the future for yourself and your family and community? Are you optimistic?
“Not feeling good because people are dying. Trying to protect customers. Because I trust in god, future will be good.

How has this year been for you and the community?
“Bad year. Always afraid to be contaminated by the virus. I had just started the business and then Covid hit.”

Have you been satisfied with the state’s response?
“Yes. We get masks and sanitizer from the state. Thankful for vaccine.”