People of color in Lincoln County, OR, are exempt from its mandatory face mask policy after officials cited racial profiling as a potential effect from the state's ramping up of mask requirements. The mask policy mandates residents to wear face coverings while in any indoor public setting and outdoor setting where physical distancings cannot be maintained. However, the county's website noted that "People of color who have heightened concerns about racial profiling and harassment due to wearing face coverings in public."
In Multnomah County just north of Lincoln County, there aren't exemptions set in place for people of color, but the county does acknowledge the potential of racial profiling. Multnomah County officials said in a statement:
"Violence and discrimination are a daily experience for people who are Black, Indigenous and people of color, [...] Racism and racist reactions to Black, indigenous, and people of color wearing face coverings is a reality. And yet we know face coverings can help people stay healthy and save lives. Multnomah County does not tolerate discrimination or violence toward individuals because of their race, ethnicity, or identity."
Source: cbsnews.com
