PABJ NOW MANDATES THAT ALL MEMBERS MUST BE FULLY-VACCINATED IN ORDER TO ATTEND IN-PERSON EVENTS

Greetings PABJ!

I hope you're having a happy and healthy summer, one that is filled with love, impact, and joy. This year has been unpredictable, and yet inspirational, at the same time. As President, I've been impressed with how our members have persevered thus far -- producing incredible journalism and media/communications services, while not forgetting to prioritize Black voices and issues. 


As the saying goes, "self-preservation is key." In order to succeed in our efforts, we must prioritize our health and wellness: Whether that is indulging in self-care or doing everything you can to stop the spread of this still devastating virus. 


PABJ is taking the necessary and responsible steps in prioritizing public health and safety during the pandemic. Today, our Executive Board discussed what that looks like for our organization given the rise in COVID-19 cases spiked by the delta variant, and news of other emerging variants.

The decision was clear: In order to prevent the spread of Coronavirus within our organization, we must emphasize the importance of vaccinations and ensure that our spaces/events represent that as well.  

Effective Immediately: All PABJ in-person meetings, events, and gatherings will require that all members and associates (including guests, partners, and service providers) attending must be fully-vaccinated, no exceptions. The mandate only exempts children under age 12, given that they are still not yet eligible to receive any of the vaccines -- but we strongly encourage they not attend such gatherings unless dire. PABJ will require proof of vaccination before entry. PABJ will also be requiring that all members have a mask with them, as we will be following and observing all city recommendations on mask wearing as well.

We are following similar protocols being set by other organizations, businesses, and cites to reduce the spread. No, such a mandate does not violate HIPAA. We are are enforcing this mandate to ensure a healthier return to in-person events in the fall without any unnecessary setbacks.

But essentially, this isn't about solely enforcing mandates -- but caring for the wellbeing of our members.

Here's some additional information and details to note:

• On Proof of Vaccination: We are requiring that members and guests either show their physical vaccination card or provide a credible copy or cell phone image of it (front and back) at the event in attendance. Please note: PABJ Executive Board has the right to refuse entry if an image of a vaccination card appears to be fraudulent and/or compromised. PABJ Executive Board holds full discretion and the final decision on such matters. Good news! Once you confirm your vaccination status once, you'll never have to do so again, as PABJ will keep track of members who have been already confirmed.
• On Defining "Fully Vaccinated": According to the CDC, people are considered fully vaccinated: 2 weeks after their second dose in a 2-dose series, such as the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, or 2 weeks after a single-dose vaccine, such as Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen vaccine. Translation: If you have only one shot or received your second one in less than two weeks -- you aren't fully vaxxed and can't attend PABJ events in-person. 
• On Event Size and Attendance RSVP: PABJ will be following the recommended guidelines of the venues hosting us. For example, if Pipeline Philly says we can only host 80 people at a meeting -- that will be the cap. RSVPs will be important and transparency will be key. Be prepared to RSVP in advance for our events and be prepared to be likely turned away if you just show up unannounced at maximum capacity. We're going to take this policy as serious as we should be taking this pandemic right now. 
• On PPE at Our Events: We encourage our fully-vaxxed PABJ members to have a mask with them, but we know some people might forget. PABJ will be having disposable masks and hand-sanitizer at all of our events, guaranteed. So no worries. 
• On Virtual/Hybrid Alternatives: PABJ will be exploring how to provide recordings and virtual viewings of our meetings and some specialized events. However, events like our upcoming PABJ Pool Party (more details on this will be coming soon), our Awards Gala, and other social/networking events most likely won't. 
• On Getting Vaccinated: If you haven't gotten vaccinated and would like to now that this mandate is in place, there are a variety of options in Philadelphia and other surrounding counties to get it. The good news is that if you get vaccinated now, you'll be fully vaccinated in time for our upcoming September 14th general meeting!

PABJ Executive Board appreciates all of our members, partners, associates, and service providers for your cooperation and support on this matter.



Keep the faith,  

Ernest Owens
PABJ President  ​