Gov.Andrew M. Cuomo launched the national “Mask Up America” education and awareness campaign Thursday to urge all Americans to wear a mask while in public to help stop the spread of Covid-19.
“New Yorkers suffered gravely when this pandemic hit our state and as we see other states battle the surge of COVID-19, we want to be sure all Americans know what we know here – that it is essential to wear a mask in order to protect one another,” Cuomo said. “We can only beat this virus if we are united as one, not divided by ideology or politics. In that spirit we worked with the best and most creative team to deliver this vital message in multiple ways and in different voices – I wear a mask to protect you and you wear a mask to protect me. It is simple as that. Mask Up America.”
Jane Rosenthal, producer and CEO Tribeca Enterprises, produced the series of spots with Academy Award-winning director Kathryn Bigelow.
Actors Robert De Niro, Kaitlyn Dever, Jamie Foxx, Morgan Freeman, John Leguizamo, Anthony Mackie, Rosie Perez, Ellen Pompeo and Jeffrey Wright used their voices and talent to promote the message and increase awareness.
The campaign includes a series of eight TV public service announcements, the first two of which are available today. All of the PSAs will be available in partnership with the Ad Council for use by broadcast and digital media outlets. The PSAs will air in donated media time and space throughout the country.
Lisa Sherman, president and CEO of the Ad Council, said, “With cases of the virus continuing to rise across the country, we are proud to partner with Governor Cuomo’s office on this critical message and inspire all Americans to wear face coverings.”
The eight 30-second television spots, which will be rolled out throughout the month of July, include:
1. “You Have My Respect”
2. “Join the Battle”
3. “Come On, America”
4. “For the Love Of”
5. “An Easy Lift”
6. “Face Facts”
7. “It’s Your Shift”
8. “Show Some Love”
Several of the spots will be available in both English and Spanish versions, and will also be available for radio.