[NFBP-Talk] Conduct on NFB of PA Talk Listserv

[Emily Gindlesperger]

To our Federation Family in PA and beyond,
The state board would like to take a moment to address recent remarks sent out on our list serves, and remind everyone of our work at the Federation and the great opportunities we have to communicate and help.  These list serves are in place as a mode of quick and respectful communications with members.
Over the course of the last few years, our state affiliate President Lynn Heitz has moved forward with restructuring many aspects of the affiliate and has created a board of dedicated individuals working to move the Federation forward.  As the pandemic took over, President Heitz took advantage of National's offer of a Zoom platform, and offered free time for meetings and topic ideas.  A further result of this new leadership was a recent team of Denice Brown, Marsha Drenth and Justin Salisbury to start a conversation of Diversity and Inclusion.  For those who have participated, it was acknowledged that these may not be easy conversations.  Our first couple of meetings were general topics, and discussions on Philadelphia.  After consideration, it was decided that narrowing the topic and highlighting other members' with different intersectionalities would be desirable.
In further response to Ms. Warren's comments over the public list serve, we have included links to both the National Diversity and Inclusion statement and Code of Conduct that the state affiliate adopted to uphold.  While it is the goal to understand the stresses and situations of all members, as stated, we cannot tolerate demeaning behavior.  
While the intent is unclear, many have already contacted us with their concerns over Ms Warren's statements and their incorrect reflection on all leaders within the Federation.  We ask no further personal rebuttals be sent.  We strongly encourage Ms. Warren to reach out again publicly with an apology.
Hopefully with our support and understanding, we can use this to open more communication and strengthen our bonds in the Federation.
Thank you

https://www.nfb.org/about-us/history-and-governance/code-conduct

https://www.nfb.org/diversity-statement
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