A Diversity Message From Neil Meltzer - November 2018
We normally begin each month with a message celebrating our diversity and our shared purpose of caring for our communities together.
For many of us, however, the beginning of this month does not feel quite normal. Recent events such as the shootings at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania are particularly unsettling as they go against our basic values of respect, tolerance and understanding. These senseless acts remind us of the importance of coming together to support our communities, our neighbors, our friends and each other.
In these uncertain times, we remain focused on our mission of healing and caring for others, with kindness and civility. 
The care and safety of our patients, guests and LifeBridge Health team members remains our highest priority. You should be aware that our security teams work in close coordination with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies, including the FBI. We have comprehensive security plans and are continually reevaluating our security strategies and tactics based on changing circumstances, including events across the state, across the country and across the world. That said, everyone plays a role in keeping our facilities and each other safe. Please report any suspicious activity to security.
With respect to key observances celebrated in November:
November is Native American Heritage Month, a month-long observance of the history, culture, traditions and contributions of our country's first Americans. The initial idea to recognize Natives began in the early 1900s with Dr. Arthur C. Parker, a member of the Seneca tribe and director of the Rochester Museum & Science Center in New York. Decades later, in 1990, President George H. W. Bush approved a joint resolution designating November as National American Indian Heritage Month. The influence of Native American culture can be found in many facets of American society, such as in our rules of governing, pastimes such as canoeing and lacrosse, and much more. Many Native Americans have emerged to become respected scholars, military personnel, artists and educators.
On Nov. 12, we will honor the brave men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces with Veterans Day (traditionally celebrated on Nov. 11, the holiday will be observed by many on Nov. 12 this year because it falls on a Sunday). Their service and actions have advanced the cause of liberty around the world and protected the freedoms we enjoy today. LifeBridge Health is fortunate to have many veterans working in our hospital family. Take some time to thank them for their service to our country.
World Kindness Day takes place on Nov. 13. Launched in 1998 by the World Kindness Movement, World Kindness Day is observed around the globe. It is dedicated to highlighting good deeds in the community and its positive impact on others. As members of the LifeBridge Health community, your kindness is exemplified in the extraordinary work you do each day to ensure everyone is treated with compassion, respect and dignity. Always know that your kindness has an enormous impact on people's lives and the community as a whole.
On Nov. 22, Thanksgiving Day, many will gather with family and friends to celebrate and reflect upon all for which we are thankful. For many this may be our relationships, work, health or the freedom to live as we choose. When I reflect on what I am thankful for, I want to thank all of you-my LifeBridge Health family. Thank you for all that you do to make our organization a great place to work and one of the best health systems with people who genuinely care about the well-being of people in the community.
I wish you and your loved ones a very happy Thanksgiving.