So much has changed over this past month—wearing facemasks when we leave our homes, using new terminology such as physical distancing, and staying safe at home—just a few of the many ways our lives have been transformed in just one month! I’m finding it somewhat difficult to write to you today, as I fear even more will be drastically different by the time you read this.
The coronavirus pandemic has forever shifted norms all across the world, and for those on the front lines—healthcare, delivery, food, and other essential workers; all who have lost jobs, wages, and businesses and are unsure of what the future holds for an economic recovery; and the most vulnerable among us, who are especially hard hit and struggle to procure even the basic necessities during a time such as this—the fast pace of change is daunting and overwhelming.
I’m sure each of you has your own challenges and changes taking place as a result of the pandemic; however, many of our Leaguers, particularly our committee chairs and our board, are adapting with new technology that allows us to continue with our mission. Switching from a face-to-face world to a virtual one presents a big learning curve, but our Communications Committee, led by Dorothy Keane, is working very hard to facilitate our ongoing ability to meet, talk, and advocate using these new tools. Thank you Communications team!
It seems the global consensus is that we will continue with our new norms for some time to come. With this in mind, the LWV-PA Board is rethinking how all these developments will shape our operations and programs for 2020–2021 and beyond.
Be sure to mark your calendars for our May 14 League Day and our June 25 Annual Meeting—and please note that the dates for both have been pushed back. Our plan is to hold both as virtual meetings, and there will be more on this in the June Voter.
At all levels, LWV is adapting to and appropriately dealing with the hurdles the coronavirus pandemic is putting before us, and I hope you will join me in supporting the way forward, with all its bumps and bends. With your help, LWV will continue to be that trusted voice in making our democracy work for all.
Yours in the movement,
Patricia A. Coulter
