One year ago today, the coronavirus outbreak was declared a global pandemic. This is a time to acknowledge not only what we endured, but what we learned. 

This year has been traumatic for so many of us. There were lockdowns and shutdowns; milestones, plans and dreams put on hold; changes in learning and how we work; and more. We were reminded that life is uncertain, unpredictable and often beyond our control.

The pandemic not only separated and isolated us, but we saw the fragility and vulnerability of our democracy and society. Additionally, the disproportionate financial and health impacts of the pandemic on people of color revealed the inequality and inequity in how we live, and how we die. 

How can we unravel and lighten the burdens of last year — and move forward? What held us together is communal and personal: selflessness, kindness, compassion, integrity and respect. While the future is still uncertain, we can resolve to participate, engage and act for the common good.

At KQED, the pandemic underscored that we exist to serve the needs of the Bay Area. This year, we delivered — and continue to deliver — critical COVID-19 information and resources, including some in Spanish. We filled educational gaps with At-Home Learning programming and resources for homebound teachers and students in the Bay Area and beyond. To ensure that we reflect the perspectives of our diverse communities, we’re looking at ourselves, our programming, our stories and our sources like we’ve never done before through the lens of diversity, equity and inclusion.