Dear Friends,
With the number of COVID-19 cases growing throughout the United States and the world, it is natural for us all to feel weighed down by the heavy implications of this virus. We know that this time is stressful for everyone. To support our team at E Pluribus Unum (EPU) and the communities in which we work, we have suspended all travel and public meetings until this crisis passes, but our staff continues to work from home.
As America responds to the coronavirus crisis, we must pay attention to what it reveals: that our existing systems do not serve all people equitably. We know that as we move through the current medical emergency, we will soon face another significant challenge which will be to create communities that are more equitable, just, and responsive to everyone. And we know that we must do that together, as one America.
During this time of crisis and uncertainty, I remain committed to the mission of EPU and proving the American motto that “out of many, one” and we are better as a united collective. This young organization is just beginning our work, but we are in it for the long haul. We know that we can take what we learn in this crisis to build back our country as it always should have been: where everyone comes to the table of democracy as equals. Where systems serve us all and opportunity and pathways are created for a secure and prosperous future. Although the virus has exposed deeper issues within our country, it illustrates that now is the time to unite around a common purpose with a shared responsibility to provide opportunity for all.
Finally, USA Today invited me and the Rev. Dr. William J. Barber, II, President of Repairers of the Breach and co-chair of the Poor Peoples Campaign to write a guest piece featuring the missions of our work and response to this health crisis. Read the full piece here.
STAY SAFE. STAY HOPEFUL. STAND UNITED.
Mitch Landrieu
Founder and President
