Letter from Kingdom Seneschal- May 31, 2020

Greetings unto the Populace of Atlantia,

The Crown and I have continued to monitor the new information being released from governmental bodies regarding the Covid 19 pandemic affecting the regions of the Kingdom of Atlantia. It is with a heavy heart that I announce the cancellation of all in-person events as well as in-person activities (fighter practices, A&S, and meetings etc.) through July 1, 2020. Virtual activities will continue to occur and variances for virtual events are available through the Kingdom Seneschal’s office.

The possibility of reopening activities is being monitored and we are prepared to roll back the cancellation date if possible. At this time, we will monitor state by state for local group activities, and remain firm that no Kingdom events will be held until all 5 states and the District of Columbia are open and allow gatherings of 500 or more. We make this announcement after great deliberation, in consultation with the great officers, and reviewing all available information at this time.

The cancellation of all activities means that no official in-person activities; local practices (all marshal activities and archery), A&S, or meetings, will be allowed in any part of Atlantia. An official activity is one publicized via an SCA website, group elist, SCA social media or to the membership of that group, and conducted in keeping with the SCA purpose and rules.

The variance we requested from the Board of Directors for the postponement of Crown Tourney will expire in July and it is my intention, at their Majesties behest, to request an extension for another 90 days, if necessary.

Despite being apart in person, Atlantia is leading the way in the SCA with Virtual Atlantia. Virtual Atlantia is the work of many generous people throughout the Kingdom. Thank you to everyone who is working so hard to provide us every day with activities. I strongly encourage you to add to the classes, online practices and information that is being shared.

I also commend the groups that are working hard to prepare for the future. From the cantons, shires and baronies holding online meetings to the virtual ‘happy hours’, we are coming together as often as we can. In addition, there are multiple Baronies that have upcoming Baronial pollings and their Seneschals and the Regional Seneschals are working to ensure continuity.

The ongoing uncertainty regarding when we will be able to gather as a Kingdom weighs heavily on all of us, our primary concern remains the health and well-being of all Atlantians. Their Majesties and I will continue to make announcements and to review the situation as we go forward.

Sincerely,

Duchess Simone de Barjavel

Kingdom Seneschal, Atlantia