SAN DIEGO — A well-known national civil rights activist from San Diego, who has taken part in demonstrations both here and in Minneapolis is revealing, he's tested positive for Covid-19.
Reverend Shane Harris has been very involved with multiple demonstrations.
He was with George Floyd's brother in Minneapolis earlier this week and held a news conference in La Mesa on Wednesday.
The people he came into contact with have been notified. Still, he says he wants others to be aware, especially those taking part in demonstrations this weekend.
Whether at the forefront or in the background, Reverend Shane Harris has been on the go for more than a week.
Friday, the People's Alliance For Justice founder has been forced to isolate indoors, after he was diagnosed with Covid-19.
"When they told me I officially did, of course, I was extremely worried," Harris told News 8 via a Zoom call on Friday.
The symptoms started Wednesday night after he returned home to San Diego from Minneapolis, and just hours following a news conference he held in La Mesa.
"A fever came across my whole body, serious body aches and headaches running rampant, consistently pounding in my head, and coughing, constant coughing," Harris said.
Harris says, given everywhere he's been, it's impossible to say where he got the virus. Though he is concerned, based on what he's seen at demonstrations, including several in Minneapolis.
"Nobody was wearing masks really, not a lot of people were social distancing," Harris said.
Harris claims he took all the necessary precautions, including wearing a mask. He fears those who have been or plan to take part in future rallies will get sick if they don't do the same. Still, he notes, for some, this fight is bigger than coronavirus.
Harris said, "I'm not surprised people do not care at this point. They want justice and they're standing up and they're willing to risk their own health to do it."
As for any regrets he has, the 28-year old says there's nothing he would've done differently, "When you look at everything we accomplished, I wouldn't take anything back."
Moving forward, he will be isolating for the next 10-14 days, but still remain active online, "I will hold a briefing every day like I have been."
For those demonstrating in person, his message is, "I want people to continue to protest but be wise."
The County provided housing for Harris since he has roommates and needed a place to isolate. He says that is available to others in his situation by calling 211.