From Susanne's Desk - Thinking of You

Dear Zonta members,

Who would have foreseen that, within only a few days, lives for almost of all us have changed dramatically in order to slow down the spreading of COVID-19? Many of you are experiencing not only shelter-in-place mandates, with all the difficulties and sad consequences that come with them, but also much more forceful impacts on your own health and that of your loved ones, on your businesses and on your jobs.

While in these times of hardships and uncertainty, we are full of concerns, we also experience heartwarming acts of solidarity. Yesterday afternoon, in the vast courtyard behind the building I live in, a DJ performed for all of the neighbors. And, at 6 p.m. throughout Germany, people were playing or singing Beethoven’s Ode to Joy from their balconies or at their open windows.

This is a time for us to reach out to the people we are connected with, among them our fellow Zontians. The idea of supporting each other is in Zonta’s and all Zontians‘ DNA. Together, we are finding creative ways to help and encourage each other. Already, I received an e-mail with only a subject line: "How are you?". We are called upon to open our ears, eyes and hearts to think of ways to respond to this unprecedented situation. One example of how it especially affects women and girls is the increased risk of domestic violence.

I just wanted to let you know that my fellow Board members and I are thinking of you. We are sending you our best wishes. Like you, we work hard to keep up with our tasks. You can be assured that we will inform you as soon as we can about major Zonta business decisions and developments.

Warm regards, and stay healthy and safe!

Dr. Susanne von Bassewitz
President
Zonta International and Zonta International Foundation