JUNE 3, 2020

A message from the Executive Director of PhotoAlliance

When set upon with any great misfortune or tragedy it seems our primary response is to act. Our impetuous nature seems to drive us from one event to the next, looking for a gratifying resolution in the smoldering ruins of disarray.

The Embers of hope that rise from the ashes of chaos are short-lived.

In order to rid ourselves of the blinding scales of prejudice we must evolve consideration.

In order to dispel fear we must cultivate understanding.

If we are to continue to exist we must overcome tribalism and learn to recognize the agents of injustice and writhing demons fear.

What can we do? What can we do now? We can listen to those we do not understand. We can stand in the face of injustice and speak. We can acquire knowledge of the unknown. We can dispel ignorance with truth, the universal truth, an essential truth. We can use the gift of our own compassion as we give thoughtful consideration to the ideas and thoughts of others. Perhaps we will learn to overcome our own impulsive nature and face the unknown with a resolute dignity.

MARCH 19, 2020

FOLLOWING THE RECOMMENDATIONS REGARDING COVID19 VIRUS FROM THE SF Public Health Dept AND Centers for Disease Control, AND IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE SAN FRANCISCO ART INSTITUTE, WE HAVE CANCELED OUR REMAINING EVENTS SCHEDULED FOR SPRING 2020.

Although the principle interest that draws our community together is our collective interest in photography, the health and safety of our community is paramount.

As you make decisions for yourself and your family, we encourage you to look at the comparison of four simulations (no social distancing, incomplete quarantine, moderate social distancing, and extreme social distancing) presented in the Washington Post. For a physician's perspective, we recommend this article about the actions all of us need to take right now. Another good source can be found at www.flattenthecurve.com.