Dear ALA Members and Colleagues,

It is with mixed emotions that I share this information with you. Please see the Resolution of The American Legion in which the 2020 National Convention has been cancelled. As a result, the American Legion Auxiliary National Convention is also cancelled. After careful review of our Constitution & Bylaws and consulting with National Parliamentarian Chris Dickey, the 2019-2020 national officers, chairmen, and committee members will continue to serve in their roles until the 2021 National Convention or upon resignation.

This is certainly an unprecedented occurrence but not wholly unexpected given the circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic. The health and safety of our membership is our top priority. Due to the uncertainty of the duration of the virus, and the numerous government regulations being enforced to contain it, National President Nicole Clapp and National Vice President Kathy Daudistel respect and support The American Legion’s decision.

We realize this affects everyone in different ways. Yet another disruption to our lives and the things we look forward to, and count on, can cause stress on our mental and emotional well-being. Take this time to feel and process the emotions. Reach out to a friend or loved one and talk about your feelings, your fears, your hopes. Take the time you need to do that and know we are all in this together. 

Let’s make the most of this opportunity to set our course for the next century of service. Our current leaders are the best we could ask for to lead us through these turbulent times and the upcoming leadership is the best match to take us down our new path. We have strength, we have conviction, we have hope. We can do it and we will still celebrate our 100th Anniversary together at the 2021 National Convention in Phoenix.

In this edition of ALA eNews, we have included messages we feel are important for members to know as we get through the pandemic. We understand you may still have questions. ALA National Headquarters is here for you. We may not physically be in the office, but we are continuing to work from home and may still be reached if needed. Most importantly, we want to make sure our members and staff are safe and remain healthy. We are all in this together, and together we will get through this. 
 
Kelly Circle, JD PhD
Executive Director, American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters