Friends and Supporters,
Please know we are working together as an ADL family to do our part in combatting and stopping the spread of COVID-19 while also continuing our important work. As you may have seen in the email last week from Jonathan Greenblatt, at ADL, we believe it is our responsibility during this time to prioritize:
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Protecting the health and well-being of our entire community: staff, volunteers, partners and event participants connected to our regional offices in the United States, Israel and Germany;
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Continuing to be vigilant in monitoring, reporting and combating antisemitic and bias-related activity, including incidents and disinformation related to the outbreak and provide support to marginalized communities; and
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Remaining dedicated to our work with schools, law enforcement and with civil rights advocacy groups using technology solutions to keep programs running efficiently for those who need them.
Our voice matters and is greatly needed as conspiracy theories and hate incidents rooted in scapegoating Asian Americans, immigrants and other marginalized groups are occurring across the country on a daily basis.
Moreover, specifically as it relates to protecting the health of our staff, volunteers and community, there are a number of important steps ADL has already taken:
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ADL staff will be working from home through March 29, but this could be extended based on guidance from public health authorities.
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ADL-sponsored meetings and gatherings of over 15 people are cancelled through at least June 1. Whenever possible, these will be transitioned into video conferences or calls.
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ADL-related staff air travel is suspended through June 1.
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On-going assessments of NLS (June), Never is Now (November) and other missions and conferences.
This is a time of great fluidity and the news changes by the minute. We are closely monitoring the situation and will take whatever steps necessary to ensure our entire ADL family is safe and healthy.
While staff may not be in the office, they are all still working and reachable via email or phone. If you can’t reach someone, please don’t hesitate to email [email protected]. Additionally, if you or anyone in your family is in need of help or assistance, please let us know and we will do everything we can to try and help.
We look forward to speaking with all of you soon. Meanwhile, take care of yourselves and your loved ones – and wash your hands!
Doron F. Ezickson
Vice President, Mid-Atlantic/Midwest Division |
