alt Hacker News> So why were public outdoor areas like skate parks filled with sand to “promote social distancing”?
Because we didn't know better yet. Note the date; April 17, 2020; just a couple weeks in.
Restrictions on outdoor activities were rapidly lifted once we got a handle on how spread happened.
LA County Parks is implementing following changes effective November 30, 2020:
All playgrounds will be closed. Fitness zones and exercise equipment will be closed. Parks and trails remain open for outdoor, passive use for individuals or members of the same household. Masks and physical distancing are required. No group gatherings are permitted
https://covid19.lacounty.gov/covid19-2-2/closures/
Emphasis mine
Edit: and for reference, because I do think you have a point, the George Floyd protests started months before November 2020.