By; Emmanuel Larh Obese,
As a proud member of our music community and President and CEO of the Recording Academy, I thought it important that I contact you directly about Deborah Dugan During her brief time at the Academy, Ms Dugan and I synchronized to take a fresh look at things and make any changes needed to improve the Academy and make the Academy better. current and more relevant to the creative community we serve . I remain committed to this goal
In November 2019, the Executive Committee became aware of abusive work environment complaints against Ms Dugan, and in December 2019, a letter was sent by an attorney representing an employee which includes additional detailed and egregious allegations of a "malicious and intolerable" . and the "abusive and threatening" environment created by Ms Dugan for employees. In light of this disturbing news, the executive committee opened an immediate and independent investigation into Ms. Dugan's alleged misconduct. After receiving a staff complaint against Ms Dugan, she (for the first time) brought charges against the Academy In response, we have opened a separate investigation into Dugan's allegations Ms Dugan's attorney then informed the executive committee that if Ms Dugan received millions of dollars, she would "retract" her charges and step down as CEO Following this notice from Ms Dugan's attorney, Ms Dugan has been placed on administrative leave as we complete these two ongoing investigations
I am deeply confused and saddened by the "leaks" and misinformation, which are fueling a press campaign designed to leverage against the Academy for personal gain As GRAMMY week approaches, I really hope we can focus our attention on the artists that have received nominations and deserve to be honored at this time of year, and not give trusted for baseless attacks against the Academy Doing otherwise is simply not right
As you know, the Board of Directors of the Recording Academy is comprised of creative and technical artists and music producers of all genres, who have dedicated their lives to creating music. music and volunteered her time for the Recording Academy's mission. These Trustees, along with the Governors of our 12 Chapters, spend their time freely and passionately Many entrepreneurs who run small businesses are dedicated to their art and spend generous time not only recognizing their peers, but also fighting for the rights of music creators, promoting music education and provide support to those who need it year-round. In addition, our hard-working and knowledgeable staff couldn't be more dedicated to supporting and advancing our mission The current attacks on the Academy are attacks on these people, are baseless, misinformed and unacceptable.
I encourage anyone really interested to go beyond the sound splashes and teaser titles and take a look at what the Academy actually does and how it works. Don't buy headlines made for personal gain, but seek the truth like I do. As mentioned, we have conducted two independent investigations to uncover all claims and come up with objective findings I pledge to you that I will deal with the findings of these investigations fairly and honestly, and that I will endeavor to make any necessary corrections and changes while ensuring that we has an Academy that celebrates diversity, inclusion, and a safe work environment for all involved.
Thank you for your interest in this issue and for supporting our Recording Academy Harvey Mason, Jr
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