A Diversity Message from Neil Meltzer-November 2017

At LifeBridge Health we celebrate both what makes us diverse and unique, and what makes us the same - our shared purpose of caring for our communities together. This month, we highlight another group of diverse celebrations, events and remembrances.

November is Native American Heritage Month. The idea to recognize our country's "first Americans" was championed in the early 1900s by Dr. Arthur C. Parker, a member of the Seneca tribe and director of the Rochester Museum & Science Center in New York. More than a century later, Native American culture continues to influence us, from the adoption of their rules of governing to the enjoyment of pastimes such as canoeing and lacrosse, and in recognizing native peoples' ongoing commitment to the stewardship of the environment. This month we have the opportunity to reflect on the incredible accomplishments of Native Americans who over many generations have emerged as respected scholars, military personnel, artists and educators.

Nov. 11 is Veterans Day. This special day is an opportunity to honor our country's brave military veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, including many LifeBridge Health employees. Veterans have advanced the cause of liberty around the world and protected the freedoms we enjoy. The armed forces are made up of Americans from a variety of cultures, faiths and ethnicities reflecting the breadth of diversity that has always made our nation strong.

The birth of Baha'u'llah is celebrated on Nov. 12. Baha'u'llah, a Persian nobleman who founded the Bahá'í faith, was born to a wealthy family in the area now known as Iran. He devoted his life to caring for the sick and poor. Imprisoned for his beliefs, he dedicated himself to spiritual contemplation and reflection. After his release, Baha'u'llah shared the books, tablets and letters that he wrote, which came to form the core scripture of the Bahá'í tradition, emphasizing the fundamental "oneness" of humanity.

This year, we begin the holiday season with our annual Thanksgiving celebration on Nov. 23. On this national holiday, which originated as a harvest festival, Americans will gather with family and friends in gratitude for the prosperity and abundance in their lives.

At LifeBridge Health, we work daily to provide the best care for our patients, while supporting and comforting their families. We use a variety of ways, including the Diversity Council, to make our organization an inclusive and empowering place to work for all our employees.

As we gather together to continue making our organization a great place to work, I want to share with you how thankful I am for your passion, dedication and commitment to our patients and our organization. I would also like to wish you and your loved ones a very happy Thanksgiving.