Dear Berkeley Lab Community,
As violent conflict widens in the Middle East and other parts of the world, I continue to find the level of suffering and destruction very difficult and devastating to watch, as it must still be for many of you.
I am heartbroken to see the continued conflict and the loss of tens of thousands of innocent lives, including children.
Berkeley Lab is an international community, with over 80 countries represented. We know many of our colleagues are personally affected and have held so much grief and fear over the last year. I share in their feelings of sorrow and I can’t imagine the stress they are still dealing with on a daily basis.
This situation in the Middle East is increasingly complex, but we should not ignore the impact that this anniversary will have on our colleagues. We ask that you show understanding and compassion for your co-workers during this time. Check-in and let them know that you are here to support them. Though they might not want to talk about it, this small act of acknowledgment matters more than you might think.
As a reminder, we encourage you to seek support and prioritize your own health – both mental and physical. Available resources include:
- Employee Assistance Program – no-cost confidential counseling and referral for Berkeley Lab employees.
- Community warm lines and support services
- Mental Health Insurance Benefits
- Healthy & Well at LBNL – general wellness and self-care resources
For supervisors, managers, and team members, I want to again share these articles with you about inclusive leadership during moments of crisis:
- How to Be an Inclusive Leader Through a Crisis – Harvard Business Review
- Talking About Mental Health with Your Employees — Without Overstepping – Harvard Business Review
- Michelle MiJung Kim’s advice for traumatic events – Medium
Finally, the Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley shared the following resources:
- Greater Good Resources for Peace and Conflict
- How to Talk With Kids About the War in Gaza and Israel
This is a moment to stand together and demonstrate our commitment to community, belonging, and inclusion at Berkeley Lab. We are here for one another, and I ask that you please continue to hold space for those who need support.
Take care,
Lady Idos
Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer
Berkeley Lab
