At some point we will need to have discussions about the value of the care economy and how to build an economy that cares. In the last 4 months big business have tried to have us believe that they want their businesses open because they care about the livelihoods of workers.

While it's a noble articulation I find it hard to believe that is true in the most unequal country in the world where minimum wage is rejected by many, social protection is mocked and profits are maximized at the expense of workers having fair reward for their efforts.

The people who support the opening of economic activity like lifting the alcohol ban may say it's about workers and families losing incomes, but so many of the same people give little consideration for the conditions that wine farm workers or resturant workers work.

If the COVID19 crisis has taught us anything it's that we need to genuinely think about the ethics of our economy and economic practices. Who we value and what that means for their ability to stay fed, clothed and build lives. To only do so when it effects profits is disingenuous

The second big lesson that I hope COVID19 teaches us that it seems that HIV was not able to fully to is the value of the care economy. People need people. Over and above food, we need support, care, mental health access and activities that promote general wellbeing. Care workers

We need to start valuing and remuneration care workers who provide social relief, support to the elderly, education support, child care and youth development much more than we have in the past if we are to build more than an good economy but good society. Wellness boost economy.

An economy that cares and a valued care economy harms noone. It may mean some lower profits (especially for big business), fewer wealthy people and paying more people we use to call volunteers but surely our collective wellbeing and individual rights to dignity are worth it.