I want to thank you for all the extraordinary work you do to advance the movement for true equality for the LGBTQ community through your support of the Human Rights Campaign. 

You are the reason we succeed. We are a family here, made up of over 3.1 million members and supporters, volunteers and staff. So, as family does, I wanted to personally reach out as news continues to break around COVID-19. 

This is a global health crisis, and the Human Rights Campaign’s number one priority is to look out for everyone’s health and safety. Our work is too important and, as we’re seeing in the government’s lagging response, more necessary than ever. 

Below are several measures we are taking to ensure our collective well-being. Take a look:

• Our physical offices will be closed through the end of the month to minimize the risk of exposure. Rest assured, we have the necessary infrastructure to support remote work for the majority of our team and the organization’s critical work will continue, including our robust election plans.
• We have decided to suspend or cancel all of our public events through the weekend of April 4, including several large-scale fundraising dinners in Nashville, Los Angeles and Houston. If you were planning to attend any of these events over the next few weeks, a message with more details will be heading your way soon.
• We are committed to providing you with the latest news as it pertains to our community and will be in touch throughout with updates as we have them. This week, we joined an open letter with more than 100 organizations urging the media and health officials to consider the unique risks faced by the LGBTQ community.
• HRC has closed its brick-and-mortar store in San Francisco to minimize the risk of exposure. The store will remain closed through April 3.

Public health is on everyone’s minds. The Human Rights Campaign has always held elected officials accountable for failures in public health policy — and we will continue to do so. 

I know this is a stressful time but please take care of yourself. Remember: As long as you are a part of the Human Rights Campaign family, you are never alone. 

If you or your loved ones have been diagnosed, exposed or are feeling sick, please reach out to your medical provider for more information — otherwise, be vigilant and monitor your health. To all those who may know someone who is battling COVID-19, I am sorry and I will keep them and you in my thoughts.

The LGBTQ community has long been forged in the fires of resilience and resistance. From pioneering activists at Compton Cafeteria, the Stonewall Inn and other places who fought back against oppression to leaders at the height of the early HIV and AIDS epidemic who demanded better treatment, fighting tirelessly in times of great need is just a part of who we are. The same is true today. 

We cannot lose sight of our focuses: advancing the rights of LGBTQ people here and around the world and defeating Donald Trump and Mike Pence in November. Especially in uncertain times like these, it may feel more difficult, but I am hoping we can count on you to support our work as we join together to advance equality … now and well into the future. 

Thank you again for all you do. Please stay safe and healthy in the weeks ahead.