@Nickittynic I really don’t think asking someone who’s wearing a mask if they would prefer I wear a mask also is a request for their personal health history or an argument. It’s an invitation for them to share their preference.

I personally stopped wearing masks when it was no longer mandated. People should have a right to exercise their autonomy unless requested otherwise. But I won’t do something based on an assumption. Since when was asking a question offensive.

@fern I mean, I put it right in my post - as contentious as mask wearing has become, it's a loaded question to ask someone who is already clearly showing a preference or need to not share unfiltered air with you "Do you want me to put on a mask?" You can see in the replies to my post and that there are many others who have experienced this as incredibly uncomfortable and not a simple question.

If you're concerned about making an assumption, it's just as easy to put the mask on as the default (which it should be on anyway), and ask, "Would you prefer we keep masks on?" Demonstrate first that you're okay with prioritizing mutual safety.

Please reconsider your choice to only participate in community care during a global pandemic when it is mandated.