Beasley Media has become the third radio group to mandate COVID-19 vaccinations for their employees.
In a memo to employees today, Beasley Media CEO Caroline Beasley wrote that all employees will be required to be fully vaccinated by November 1 with the exception of those with religious or medical accommodations. Beasley emphasized, “As broadcasters we believe we have a higher duty to the communities we serve than do ordinary businesses. As a company we also have a responsibility to ensure a safe working environment on behalf of our employees and their families. As Beasley employees each of us share this responsibility.”
Beasley Media joins Cumulus Media and Radio One in requiring all employees to show proof of vaccination for COVID-19. The NAB Show/Radio Show scheduled for October in Las Vegas will also be requiring it for all attendees. We are expecting many other of the larger operators to shortly follow suit.
The full memo sent by Caroline Beasley follows:
As the end of summer approaches, I would like to update you on where we are headed as a company in our ongoing efforts to ensure a safe workplace as the COVID-19 pandemic drags on.
Over the past year and a half, many of you have shared your personal stories about how the virus has directly impacted you and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with those of you that have lost loved ones or had family members impacted by the virus. I understand and appreciate firsthand the devastating effect it can have. As we celebrated George’s incredible legacy in June, I could not help but feel he might still be here today if it were not for the pandemic and the COVID infection that ultimately took his life.
Your health and safety remain our top priority. When the number of cases surged across the country due to the Delta variant of the virus, we reinstated the mandatory mask mandate that apply to vaccinated as well as unvaccinated employees, in accordance with CDC guidelines.
As broadcasters we believe we have a higher duty to the communities we serve than do ordinary businesses. As a company we also have a responsibility to ensure a safe working environment on behalf of our employees and their families. As Beasley employees each of us share this responsibility. Accordingly, we will be requiring all employees to be fully vaccinated by November 1st, excepting those with religious or medical accommodations. This policy will apply to new and existing employees alike. Details regarding the new vaccination policy are attached.
Being vigilant in keeping everyone safe remains our number one priority.
Thank you for your ongoing commitment to serve our local communities and businesses during this unprecedented time. By working together, we can focus forward and move beyond the other side of the virus to live our lives and continue to serve our listeners, advertisers and communities that rely on us daily.
Thank you for doing your Beasley best.
With gratitude,
Caroline
This story first appeared on radioinsight.com