The efforts of these activists were not just about the masks themselves but also about building community and care.

As governments failed with PPE distribution as the pandemic took hold, communities were taking matters into their own hands. PHM North America spoke to three activists in Massachusetts, Quebec, and Pennsylvania about actions they took to make and distribute masks when the government seemed unable to do so. Importantly, their efforts were not just about the masks themselves, but also about building community and care. Their stories show how autonomous community action protects and promotes health justice for all.