Friend,

As we continue to monitor the COVID-19 global pandemic, our team is working to be as prepared as possible to protect the safety and health of our staff, our supporters, our volunteers, and the people of Alaska.

It is particularly crucial, at this time, that Alaskans continue in our tradition of caring and looking out for another — knowing that there is nothing more important than assuming our individual roles and responsibilities in ensuring the health and safety of one another. For that purpose, I have directed my team, in accordance with best practices recommended by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), to take the following steps:

• Campaign staff and volunteers are shifting to working remotely, maintaining continuity of our campaign for change in Alaska
• The campaign has canceled all of our scheduled public events and travel to reduce the risk posed to Alaskans by social gatherings including our upcoming trips to Bethel and Fairbanks, and associated events
• The campaign has re-oriented our canvassing and phone-banking efforts to virtual options

As for steps that each one of us can take, we should all follow best practices recommended by the CDC to combat the spread of the virus, including frequent hand-washing (for at least 30 seconds), staying home if you or someone you live with is experiencing flu-like symptoms, and looking after your neighbors (especially the elderly who may need assistance picking up groceries, etc).

In a state twice the size of Texas, Alaskans are well versed in creative methods of maintaining our sense of community with our friends and family without being physically present with one another. Nonetheless, we look forward to when it is safe and responsible to come physically together in our mission for enacting positive change in Alaska. Until then, I am grateful for our incredibly dedicated health professionals who have worked and continue to work tirelessly to promote and protect Alaskans’ health.

For the most reliable and up to date information on the COVID-19 virus, please monitor the CDC website and the website for the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services.

This is a time for us to pull together and find safe, new ways of connecting with Alaskans. We are resilient and we will adapt as the story develops. Please stay in touch with the team and me as we continue to plan for the coming weeks.

Gratefully,

Alyse Galvin