COVIDSafe Policies and Masking Update
The following is the most recent, updated information from our kingdom seneschal:
Their Majesties, Their Highnesses and I have heard much from the populace regarding the change to the COVIDSafe and Masking policies in the Kingdom.
Several have asked who was consulted regarding possible changes to policy, and I can confirm that I directly reached out to all local seneschals approximately a month ago for feedback regarding the masking policies. In addition, we have heard privately from many of the populace who wish to see the masking policies reduced to be brought in line with state and local guidance, but are afraid to speak out publicly.
With that said, given the resolution from the Board of Directors, we still believe prolonging the decision to remove the restrictions is not in the best interest of the Kingdom as a whole. However, we regret that we did not acknowledge the need for socializing the change and the travel plans for many of our populace for the upcoming weekend when making our initial decision. As a result, the following adjustment has been made:
The COVIDSafe Policy and all Masking Policy restrictions will be dropped effective October 1, 2022.
The seneschal of your local group can reach out to me directly to request a variance for an event or official gathering/practice on masking policies only. The COVIDSafe policy cannot be adjusted on an event by event basis.
After December 1, 2022, all variances requested will have to be passed through the Society Seneschal.
Again, we thank you for your candid conversations regarding the policy changes and know that adjustment is always hard for everyone involved. Please remember courtesy and kindness when interacting with others.
In Service,
Magistra Audrye Beneyt
East Kingdom Seneschal
Ryouko-jin & Indrakshi
King and Queen of the East Kingdom
Mohammad & Corotica
Prince and Princess of the East Kingdom
*French Translation Forthcoming*
Below is a copy of the original announcement, prior to the above update:
Their Majesties, Their Highnesses and I have discussed the latest announcement from the Board of Directors at length. (https://www.sca.org/news/ board-resolution-amendment-to- covidsafe-policy-effective-1- december-2022/) In addition, we have heard counsel from a significant portion of the populace of the East prior to this announcement.
In light of the announcement, the Office of the Kingdom Seneschal, in consultation with Their Majesties and Their Highnesses, hereby removes the COVIDSafe requirements and masking policy effective immediately.
The only requirement going forward is the SCA Health Acknowledgement (https://seneschal. eastkingdom.org/docs/toolbox/ Covid/2022-02-17-COVIDSafe- Acknowledgement.pdf) must continue to be posted on all event/gathering pages/websites and visible onsite as well.
It is important to note that we will continue to support those who wish to continue masking. Similarly, we support those who wish to no longer mask. These are personal decisions and will be treated as such. We expect the entire populace to be respectful of the choices of others.
We encourage the populace to vaccinate and get boosted as you are able, and remember the social responsibility of not attending an event should you have any symptoms of illness regardless of whether they are COVID-related or not.
Should you have comments regarding the Board Resolution, please direct those comments to sca-comments@sca.org.
As always, be courteous and respectful to each other, tygers.
In Service,
Magistra Audrye Beneyt
East Kingdom Seneschal
Ryouko-jin & Indrakshi
King and Queen of the East Kingdom
Mohammad & Corotica
Prince and Princess of the East Kingdom
*French Translation Forthcoming*