(STAMFORD, CT) June 2, 2020 | 2 min read —
Good afternoon Webster bankers,
I reach out to you at a time of great challenge for our country, our communities and our bankers. The tragic and senseless deaths of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and other members of the black community have caused concern, anger and sadness for people across our nation. This has reminded all of us that there is much work to do in creating a society where all people, regardless of color, race or religion, are treated fairly and provided with opportunity to live a life free of worry for their safety. The cumulative effect of these events, the civil unrest that has followed, and a global pandemic that has impacted the health of our citizens and our economy, has challenged all of us. This is especially true for communities of color, which have been disproportionally impacted in every respect.
In the past few days, we’ve seen unrest in communities across the nation, including in our own footprint from Massachusetts to Wisconsin. There is a tremendous and immediate need for all of us to work together to support one another. As a community, we need to find additional ways to respect and appreciate our differences.
Racism, discrimination and intolerance, in any form, are unacceptable and we support the black community and the peaceful protests for a better future for our nation. As a values-based and community-minded bank, we are dedicated to respecting the dignity of every individual, acting with responsibility and ethical behavior. These values are at the core of who we are, and how we act both as individuals and as an organization every day. Importantly, at Webster, each individual has different experiences and unique perspectives, all of which make for a better company. Our diversity gives us strength and makes us the incredible organization that we are today. Together we can ensure that we have a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace for all our bankers.
It is important to continue to have honest and authentic dialogue across the organization. I encourage you to reach out to our new Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) Officer with your suggestions and ideas. And as always, feel free to contact me directly with your feedback. During this stressful time, if you need personal assistance, please reach out to your manager or HR business partner. Our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is also available for additional resources for you and your loved ones.
Thank you for all you do to cultivate and promote a safe and inclusive workplace. Together, living our values, we will continue to make sustained and meaningful change at Webster and in our communities.
John R. Ciulla
Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer
