03/13/2020
Unfortunately, the WVYAP will be delayed and rescheduled for a date to be named later. For further information, here is Michael Stuart from the US Attorney’s office for clarification:
“At this point, to our knowledge, there has not been a single case of COVID 19 in the State of West Virginia. While we are pleased that West Virginia has thus far not been affected, we are also confident that it is unlikely that will remain the case. Although much work and planning went into the development of the Building Bridges: West Virginia Civil & Human Rights Summit as scheduled for March 26 at West Virginia State University, in an abundance of caution to mitigate unnecessary exposure to the emerging virus threat COVID 19, we reluctantly are postponing the event to a date to be determined. This decision was made after consultation with health professions and with the best interests of participants as the primary consideration. Despite this disappointing postponement, promoting and protecting the right of all citizens to live peaceably and safely in communities across West Virginia is and remains our utmost priority. We will continue to champion America’s highest ideals of freedom, justice and equality for all- protecting our houses of worship; ensuring equal opportunity in the workplace; fighting discrimination in housing; protecting the rights of people with disabilities; and prosecuting crimes of hate, bigotry, and discrimination. We are incredibly appreciative of all of the work and commitment of our amazing sponsors and hosts- West Virginia State University and the City of Charleston. We are also very thankful for those partners who have worked and been committed to this endeavor for many, many months. I also want to particularly thank Tracy Chapman and my team for their incredible dedication and work on such an important subject- Civil & Human Rights.
This is the greatest country in the history of mankind and we have the greatest health system in the history of mankind. We have overcome challenges before; We will overcome challenges again; And, soon, this terrible challenge will also pass but, I appreciate, that doesn’t make it any easier today. During this time, be smart, be safe, be prudent, use common sense, check-in with your family and neighbors, maintain personal space, wash your hands often and frequently, cough and sneeze into your sleeve, and avoid shaking hands (all the things we should do during any flu or other health concern).
These are not normal times, but this is not a time for panic either. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Caution is the better part of valor. After this national concern has passed and the world once again turns right-side-up, we look forward to once again hosting this very important Summit.”
Michael B. Stuart
United States Attorney
