In their own words: How COVID changed America

The COVID-19 lockdown "felt like solitary confinement," a San Diego resident tells NPR. Even after many pandemic rules lifted, American society remains deeply fractured.

In their own words: How COVID changed America
Faced with isolation during the early weeks of the COVID-19 pandemic, James Yu of San Diego, Calif., embraced new priorities — like starting a family. Here, Yu is seen with his wife, Barbara, daughter Madeleine and their dog Quilo.

The COVID-19 lockdown "felt like solitary confinement," a San Diego resident tells NPR. Even after many pandemic rules lifted, American society remains deeply fractured.