If ever there was a time for solidarity, this is it!  Our thoughts go out to the workers on the front lines, especially those in health care, retail, education, and the public sector who are putting themselves on the line for our safety.  And we empathize with those of us who are facing work slow downs and layoffs and sacrificing more than they should have to address this health and social challenge. We are grateful that many of these workers have strong unions who provide them with a voice at work during these extraordinarily difficult times.

LERC faculty staff continue to work, but like most of you are now working remotely.  Our physical office is closed for the time being, but we are responding to emails and calls the best we are able.  Our research work and program planning continues.

We canceled our Metro Leadership program in Portland set for the end of April in response to precautions against group meetings.  We will keep you posted on future programs scheduled for this summer, guided by the advice of public officials and health experts.

Obviously, the effects of COVID 19, both short and long-term, are likely to be far-reaching and profound. LERC’s faculty and staff remain committed to ensuring that the needs of workers receive priority. We also affirm our commitment to solidarity and collective action as labor values that will enable us to respond to COVID 19 with compassion and resolve.