A Diversity Message from Neil Meltzer - November 2020

November is Native American Heritage Month, a month-long observance recognizing the history, contributions and traditions of our country's "first Americans." Native American culture has heavily influenced many facets of American society including our language, government, literature, medicine, food and recreation.

Did you know, many of our states' names are derived from indigenous words such as Wisconsin, Wyoming, Alabama and Arizona, just to name a few? Many Native Americans are respected scholars, military personnel, artists and educators, where they have and continue to make positive impacts on society.

November 3 is General Election Day. Voting is your opportunity to stand up for the issues that matter most to the quality of life you want for yourself and future generations. If you have not voted already, I encourage everyone to vote to have their voices heard.

Take some time to honor the brave men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces on November 11, Veterans Day. Many of the rights and freedoms we have today are made possible thanks to their valiant service and actions to advance the cause of liberty around the world.

Traditionally, this day is celebrated with parades and church services as well as American flags flown at half-staff at various buildings. A period of silence lasting two minutes at 11 a.m. and the playing of Taps may also take place in many locations.

World Kindness Day is November 13. Observed around the world, the day was first launched in 1998 by the World Kindness Movement. As the name implies, World Kindness Day is dedicated to highlighting good deeds in the community and their positive impact on others. As a member of our LifeBridge Health family, this day should resonate with us all since you demonstrate its purpose every day by showing our patients, visitors and co-workers the kindness, compassion and respect they all deserve. Never forget the huge impact you have on every life you touch.

I also wanted to address something that will be happening on November 16, when the Boy Scouts of America, Baltimore Area Council will be honoring me with their Outstanding Service and Good Scout awards. Given the history of the Boy Scouts organizations toward the LGBTQ community as well some terrible transgressions that happened in the past, I want you to know that, before agreeing to accept this award, we had some serious discussions with the local Boy Scouts council about what is being done to address these failings and how the direction of the organization has changed in actions, deeds and morality and will continue to transform in the future. Given our organizational and my own personal commitment to diversity and respect, I wanted you to know that we made sure to address these issues with the local scouting council.

Finally, on Thanksgiving Day (November 26), many will safely gather with family and friends, in person or virtually, to enjoy a meal with all the trimmings, watch a game or just spend time together. On this day, I encourage everyone to take some time to think of all that you are grateful for this year, which has been like no other. I am thankful for my LifeBridge Health family, all the care and dedication that you've shown in ensuring everyone remains safe and healthy during this pandemic. Thank you for the commitment you make every day to CARE BRAVELY and to live our LifeBridge Health values.

At LifeBridge Health, we embrace diversity, and these monthly Diversity messages are meant to recognize and celebrate the richness of our team members' cultures and that of our country. We celebrate both what makes us diverse and unique, and what makes us the same-our shared purpose of caring for communities together.