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Dear Free Software Supporter,

[LibrePlanet][0] has an important role in building ties and
collaboration in the free software movement, and we know how much
many people look forward to it each year. The onset of the novel
coronavirus (COVID-19) is a stressful and devastating
development. We are considering all possible measures that might
need to be taken as we carefully track the latest news
updates. We are committed to the safety of our attendees,
staff, and their wider communities, so we are approaching these
decisions carefully.

[0]: [link removed]

At this time, the risk for Massachusetts residents remains low,
and there are [no travel notifications][1] for the United States or
Boston, MA. The latest update from the [World Health
Organization (WHO)][2] from February 29 continues to advise
against the application of any international travel restrictions,
based on current information available. For the time being, we
are remaining optimistic that LibrePlanet 2020 can continue as
planned.

[1]: [link removed]
[2]: [link removed]

We will continue to monitor public health notifications, using
information provided by the City of Boston, Commonwealth of
Massachusetts, the WHO, and the [Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC)][3], which is charged with monitoring and
responding to the coronavirus in the US. We are coordinating with
the venue to increase the disinfecting of surfaces and to have
sanitizer on site. Please be assured that we care about your
safety just as much as your freedom, and are taking every
precaution to ensure that the event is as inspiring and
successful as ever.

[3]: [link removed]

If you have traveled to an area [known to be at risk to
COVID-19][4] in the month leading up to LibrePlanet 2020, please
ensure that you have shown no flu-like symptoms in the last 14
days since your travel to that region. If you decide to cancel
your registration for any reason related to this situation,
please let us know at <[email protected]>, so we are fully
aware of how many people are being affected. If your registration
was paid, we will refund it. The event will be streamed
live, so you will not have to miss out on the entire experience.

[4]: [link removed]

Should the situation worsen, forcing a cancellation of the
in-person event, an announcement will follow on [fsf.org][5] and
[libreplanet.org/2020][6]. All registered conference participants
will receive an update via email. We are also preparing
contingency plans to be able to offer at least some talks via
remote streaming.

[5]: [link removed]
[6]: [link removed]

Please keep yourself informed, and remember to protect your own
health and others' by following [basic best practices][7]. Again,
we are taking every step that we can to make LibrePlanet 2020 a
safe experience for all of its attendees.

[7]: [link removed]

Thank you for your continued support and understanding.

Zoë Kooyman
Program Manager

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