Reflections on the Deadly Attack at the U.S. Capitol this Week

As the CEO of Virgin Pulse, a global, U.S. based digital health and wellbeing organization, I felt a responsibility to address the events of this week directly with our employees. As anger, fear, frustration, despair and anxiety reached epic proportions, I wanted them to know exactly where we, as an organization, stand on this issue. We all have a right to have our voices heard and to march for what we believe in, but when those rights and freedoms are invoked to incite violence and promote insurgence, there is no middle ground. Here is the email that was shared with our employees stating our position:

This week in the U.S., we witnessed one of the darkest, most unimaginable days our country has ever experienced. The attack that unfolded at the U.S. Capitol was an act of domestic terrorism, a desecration of democracy that sought to undermine the freedom and values that have long defined our great country. These cowardly and violent events have shaken and saddened all of us, regardless of political affiliation, at a time when we are still reeling from a pandemic, racial injustice and social unrest. They do not represent who we are or what we stand for and must not be condoned.

The divisiveness that has been building in the U.S. over the past year seems to have reached a new fever pitch with this week’s violence, but we cannot be divided. We must stand together. I am hopeful and optimistic that brighter days lie ahead. As we work to regain our equilibrium, I urge each of us to focus on the positive actions we are taking – as individuals and as an organization – to create change that moves our communities – and our country - forward. Our actions matter and they make a difference, and they have never been more important than right now. As we reflect on the events at our Capitol on Wednesday, it is important to acknowledge the apparent difference in law enforcement response to this attack and to Black Lives Matter peaceful protests earlier this year. As we continue our diversity, equity and inclusion efforts within Virgin Pulse, we are mindful of the impacts of inequity inside and outside of the workplace.

I recognize this is a challenging and emotional time for many. In addition to processing this ourselves, many of us are struggling to explain the events of this week to our children (I have found this resource to be useful in helping me navigate conversations with my children about violence). Please know that we are here to support you and your families, Our EAP provider offers a wealth of resources, including crisis support and 24/7 mental health support.

Lastly, I would also encourage all of us to make a concerted effort to take care of and support one another right now – reach out to your family, friends and colleagues and make sure they are ok.