I have been a professional DJ for over a quarter of a century, with a rich and diverse career spanning the vibrant cityscapes of New York City and Miami. Throughout these years, I have not only entertained millions but also contributed significantly to the cultural and economic fabric of these communities. However, the global pandemic known as COVID-19 has unleashed unprecedented devastation upon my industry. The catastrophic impact of this crisis has not only erased livelihoods but has also claimed the lives of many within our community. This petition seeks to address the severe repercussions that have arisen due to the inadequate responses and mismanagement by our governmental bodies during this crisis.

The Devastating Impact on the Industry

The music, service, and hospitality sectors have faced insurmountable challenges since the onset of the pandemic. Venues closed, events canceled, and the very essence of our communal interactions has been disrupted. This has not just been a financial blow but has deeply affected the mental and emotional health of everyone in our industry. We are not mere numbers; we are dedicated professionals who have dedicated our lives to enriching the cultural landscapes of our cities.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a stark decrease in employment within the leisure and hospitality sector, with a decline of 3.8 million jobs since February 2020. These are not just statistics but represent real people, many of whom I know personally, who have faced profound losses and upheaval.

Our Demands

We urge our government to acknowledge the severe impact their handling of the pandemic has had on our lives and livelihoods. We demand:

Fair Financial Compensation: Immediate financial assistance that reflects the losses incurred during this period, enabling professionals and businesses within our sectors to recover and eventually thrive.
Recognition and Support for Emotional and Mental Health: Programs that address the emotional and mental strain placed on workers in our industry, providing necessary resources and support.
Inclusive Policy Making: Inclusion of industry stakeholders in crafting policies that affect our sectors, ensuring that future measures align with our unique needs and circumstances.
Transparency and Accountability: Full transparency in the decision-making processes and accountability for the mishandling that exacerbated the impact of the pandemic on our industry.
Conclusion

This crisis, referred to by some as a 'Bio War', has not only tested our resilience but has also highlighted the vulnerabilities in our societal and governmental structures. It is imperative that we receive recognition for our suffering and concrete steps are taken to rectify the monumental losses we have endured.

We call upon every individual who stands with us in seeking justice and appropriate measures to address the hardships faced by the music, service, and hospitality industries to sign this petition. Your support is not just in pursuit of financial reparation, but also in acknowledgment of the human suffering that has been disproportionately borne by our community.

- Mitchell Frederick Ulitsky (Brooklyn, NY)

Please sign this petition if you believe in justice and comprehensive support for those tragically affected by these monumental governmental failures.