A Diversity Message from Neil Meltzer, President and CEO, and Dr. Sybil Pentsil, Chief Diversity Officer - November 2022

A meaningful commitment to diversity and belonging is one of our most essential priorities here at LifeBridge Health. With these monthly Diversity Messages, we aim to celebrate the unique cultures and rich diversity represented by our team members across the network, honoring our differences and reflecting on our common purpose - to care for our communities together. 

November is Native American Heritage Month and also contains Native American Heritage Day, observed each year on the day after Thanksgiving. Both the monthlong observance and the day of recognition honor the histories, cultures and tremendous contributions of the many peoples indigenous to what is now the United States of America. While the month and day are celebrations of Native American heritage, they also give cause to raise awareness for both the historic and ongoing challenges faced by many native communities.

On November 11, the nation observes Veterans Day in honor of United States Armed Forces military veterans. November 11 is the anniversary of the armistice with Germany which brought World War I to its effective end. In 1954, Armistice Day, dedicated to honoring the cause of world peace, became Veterans Day. Since then, the day has been a time for many Americans to express gratitude for the service of veterans.

World Kindness Day is an international observance taking place on November 16. Established by a coalition of kindness-focused NGOs (non-governmental organizations), the day is observed to promote worldwide kindness, calling on individuals to participate in acts of kindness.

Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, taking place November 12-20, calls on the nation to rally against the widespread issues of hunger and homelessness. A drive for both awareness and action, the weeklong program encourages individuals and organizations to host and volunteer at awareness events as well as to provide donations in support of those experiencing homelessness and hunger. Learn how you can participate in Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week here.

Proclaimed by the United Nations in 1996, November 16 is observed annually as International Day of Tolerance. The purpose of the observance is to recognize and respect the differences between our world's many cultures, promoting fundamental individual freedoms and universal human rights.

Thanksgiving, this year on November 24, is traditionally dedicated to gratitude, spending time with family and loved ones and enjoying great meals. We are especially grateful for the year-round dedication of our LifeBridge Health team members who work every day to Care Bravely for the communities and individuals who depend on us. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts as we wish a safe and happy Thanksgiving holiday to all!
 

Calls to Action

Thank a Veteran
In honor of Veteran's Day, we encourage all to seek out the veterans in their lives to express gratitude. Veterans who are LifeBridge Health team members are welcomed to join the Veterans Network Employee Resource Group by emailing Chair Joshua Baxter at JBaxter@lifebridgehealth.org

Thanksgiving Service
To Care Bravely is to care for others, so this Thanksgiving we encourage all to seek volunteer opportunities at shelters, make donations of food and clothing and partake in other acts of service. 

The Leadership Institute's Civil Treatment for Leaders Course
For LifeBridge Health leaders only, the Civil Treatment for Leaders course offered on November 8 from 10 am to 12:30 pm teaches about managing a diverse workforce while creating and maintaining a productive, inclusive and fair workplace. Leaders may register via Healthstream.

Thank you for the commitment you make every day to CARE BRAVELY and live our LifeBridge Health values.