How Humanity Unites in Social Distance

Issue 27: How Humanity Unites in Social Distance

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Issue 27: How Humanity Unites in Social Distance

Times have changed. Many states across the United States are still on lockdown, with others opening up to a fragile world fraught with uncertainty for what lies ahead. Having access to the Internet is more crucial than ever to keep us connected in social distancing times. More screen time isn't necessarily a good thing, but some technology can provide a window to IRL connection.

Here are some of our favorite ways to keep connected.

Write a letter to an elder

If you're looking for a big impact way to help out during these uncertain times, check out this project Love for the Elderly.

Started by a 19 year old social activist, writer, and college student Jacob Cramer, this website is a lovely example of how an internet connection can make magic happen. All you need is some pen, paper, and some kind words.

Their mission is to fight loneliness, which is likely even tougher on the elderly who can't go outside without worrying right now—if you can, they're also asking for donations to support their COVID-19 response effo rt.

Chat with a stranger on the phone

For those who prefer chatting and connecting over the phone, hop over to Quarantine Chat, an app that connects strangers worldwide.

After you sign up, you'll get calls at random times, which pair you with another person in a one-on-one conversation, where you can talk about anything. Since spontaneous interactions are harder and harder to come by in an era where leaving the house is risky, this app brings serendipity back to life.

WATCH: A Social Distance Film

How is everyone else doing around the world? When so many countries are underneath lockdown, despite the distance between us, we all have our humanity in common.

This short documentary, A Short Distance, was co-directed by Jacob Jonas and Ivan Cash, and scored by Steve Hackman. Check this uplifting glance into the lives of others under quarantine—all of them hand-washing, fridge-stocking, dancing and virtual elbow-bumping in more than 30 countries.

Thank you for reading The Slow Scroll this week! Please feel free to share your thoughts on how else we can connect during these unprecedented times—just e-mail us here with any feedback, thoughts, or other tips on living IRL.

Send this to a friend who needs some tips on how to connect IRL. Then call them up for a chat.

Why ‘The Slow Scroll’?

Social Isolation is Killing Us. Tech companies are failing us. And we’re all hopelessly addicted to our screens.

Living IRL has never been more important.

That’s why we created The Slow Scroll, a biweekly newsletter by IRL Labs, sent directly to your inbox (oh the irony). The Slow Scroll curates the latest and most inspiring content and resources, empowering readers to untether and live slowly.

Brought to you by...

Ivan Cash, Editor-in-Chief
Cyrena Lee, Editor and Lead Writer
Erin Ellis, Illustrator

Mailing Address
IRL Labs
PO BOX 24213
Oakland, CA 94623

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The Slow Scroll is a curated newsletter dedicated to helping you live IRL.
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