Unmasked: Covid, Community, and the Case of Okoboji

In the COVID summer of 2020, a small Iowan tourist town, Okoboji, became a hotspot due to a collective turn from coronavirus to the economy. State political failures, local negotiations, and community (dis)belief about the virus resulted in this. Author Emily Mendenhall, an anthropologist at Georgetown University, observed a community that rejected public health guidance, revealing deep-seated mistrust in outsiders and strong commitments to local thinking.

Format: Hardback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 15 March 2022
Publisher: Vanderbilt University Press

Unmasked: A Tale of Okoboji

In the summer of 2020, a small Iowan tourist town named Okoboji found itself at the center of a remarkable shift. As the world grappled with the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, a collective turn towards the economy took place, marking a significant departure from the initial focus on combating the virus. This transformation unfolded amidst state political failures, local negotiations among political and public health leaders, and a pervasive sense of (dis)belief about the virus within the community.

Just before the Independence Day weekend, when half a million visitors were expected to flock to Okoboji, the town was declared a hotspot. This designation came as a result of a confluence of factors, including state political inaction, local power struggles, and a pervasive skepticism towards public health measures. It was a moment that would have profound consequences for the town and its residents.

The story of Unmasked is both personal and political. Author Emily Mendenhall, an anthropologist at Georgetown University, has deep connections to Okoboji, as her family has lived there for generations. As the events unfolded, Mendenhall found herself in Okoboji, conducting formal interviews with over 100 individuals. Through her observations, she witnessed a community that defied public health guidance, revealing a deep-seated mistrust in outsiders and a steadfast commitment to local thinking.

Unmasked is a captivating and poignant exploration of trust and isolationism in America's small communities. It sheds light on the choices that individuals make when faced with uncertainty and challenges, and how popular beliefs can shape the course of events. It serves as a reminder of the importance of collaboration, empathy, and a collective commitment to public health in times of crisis.

In conclusion, Unmasked is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex dynamics that shaped the COVID-19 pandemic in a small town. Through the lens of Okoboji, it offers a poignant reflection on the human experience and the power of community in times of adversity.

Weight: 556g
Dimension: 148 x 223 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780826504524