From the Kingdom of Ansteorra Facebook page:
Beloved Ansteorra,
By now, most of you have seen the new policy from the Board of Directors which permits Kingdoms to require either vaccinations or recent (72 hours) negative COVID tests. If not, it is linked below. This policy is, understandably, quite controversial. Truth be told, there is no perfect answer to this situation. We are all volunteers doing the best we can for this game we love.
During the time of this horrible virus, we have all suffered loss. We have lost friends and loved ones, needed social interaction which is important for mental health, financial stability, and countless other important things I cannot imagine. We recognize that this is a difficult time for everyone. For many people, the SCA is a vital aspect of their social interaction and they long for the days of a return to pre-virus normalcy. Unfortunately, doing so at this time is simply irresponsible. However, we have worked to ensure our risks are as minimal as possible at every step of the way.
With this in mind, *Ansteorra WILL implement the Board policy starting October 15, 2021.* With this implementation, we will be altering our reopening policy. As of October 15, 2021, indoor activities over 25 people are permitted, but all attendees aged 3 and older must wear masks, except while eating and drinking. Masks will no longer be required for outdoor activities except for those children aged 3-11, per Board policy. The food policy has not changed at this time. As a reminder, this policy requires full vaccination, which means 14 days AFTER all required doses. For more information on getting vaccinated, including how to handle a lost vaccination card, please visit the CDC website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronav…/2019-ncov/vaccines/index.html.
This policy is compulsory. Failure to abide by this policy may result in ejection from site and sanctions for individuals and suspension of the ability to host activities for groups. Further, this applies to all in-person SCA functions, including fighter practices, meetings, and events.
Those who wish to still wear masks are encouraged to do so. Everyone is required to respect the personal space of others. Please remember that we are a Society founded on the principles of chivalry, courtesy, and honor. We must treat each other accordingly. Groups are also encouraged to implement virtual aspects into their activities so more people may participate safely.
We are constantly monitoring the situation and have been encouraged by the downward trend in Texas and Oklahoma. If this changes, we will alter our reopening accordingly. For those who are concerned about modern law in Texas, current Executive Orders and Legislation in the state of Texas are very narrowly tailored and do not prohibit the SCA from enacting this policy in Texas. The state of Oklahoma has issued no similar Order or Legislation.
For those of you with questions, comments, or concerns regarding this policy, you may email kingdom@seneschal.ansteorra.org. Do not send me messages or tag me on social media and expect a response. I will be hosting “office hours” to discuss implementing this policy over the next two weeks. Please stay tuned for more details.
Link to Board policy: https://www.sca.org/…/covidsafe-proof-of-fully…/
Link to FAQ from the Board: https://www.sca.org/…/COVIDSafe-Proof-of-Vaccination-or…
–In Service,
Brian O’hUilliam, OL, OP, CB, WSA
Ansteorra Seneschal
——————————————————————————————————-
Ansteorra Martial Practices Reopen Plan
Effective May 1st all adult martial practices resume with alignment to Society event restrictions:
- Outdoor practices only
- Face masks covering nose and mouth
- Solid barriers within helms/masks will no longer be considered equivalent in compliance with Society event restrictions.
- No sharing of food and water
- Compliance with local jurisdictional restrictions
Youth martial activities and indoor practices will resume at a future date yet to be determined.
The tracking data will continue to be published for local marshals’ and participants’ awareness, but barring dire circumstances the kingdom will no implement additional requirements than above for the different phases.
SCA Resolution to Lift Suspension of In-Person Activity
From the Board of Directors and the offices of the Society Seneschal, and President.
On March 23, 2021, the Board of Directors passed the following:
Resolution to Lift Suspension of In-Person Activity in the SCA as of June 1st, 2021
I. Whereas the challenge created by the COVID-19 Global Pandemic demanded heightened safety standards which led to a suspension of in-person activity in North America by the SCA Board of Directors;
II. Whereas the crisis of the Pandemic is being addressed through a combination of social policy, as well as scientific and medical advancements;
III. Whereas the SCA Board of Directors continues to prioritize the health and well-being of the membership and participants of the SCA; and
IV. Whereas the directed suspension of in-person events in North America expires after May 31st, 2021; now, therefore, be it
V. Resolved, that the SCA Board of Directors lifts the suspension of in-person activity in North America, effective June 1, 2021, provided adherence to the items in this resolution;
VI. Resolved, that all attendees in North America must follow all province, territory, state, and local health guidelines at SCA events. In addition, at all North American SCA events:
A. Masks that fully cover the mouth and nose must be worn by all attendees over the age of 4 at all times and during all activities except for eating and drinking;
B. Court, bardic circles, or any activity that involves voice projection shall also require that masks be worn at all times. Sound amplification devices are highly recommended;
C. No day board, water-bearing, or food of any kind shall be provided by event staff or attendees to other attendees. All attendees must provide their own food and beverages;
D. While consuming food or beverages, attendees are required to remain stationary and follow social distancing rules;
E. No overnight camping shall be allowed;
F. All events shall be held outdoors;
G. There shall be a maximum of 150 people at any event; and
H. All events shall require preregistration.
VII. Resolved, that the SCA Board of Directors mandates applicable Kingdoms who have determined that it is safe to host in-person events before June 1st, 2021 or who propose any deviation from the above restrictions to request a variance from the Society Seneschal in order to hold the proposed event. The Society Seneschal shall have the authority to grant or deny these requests. These requests will be reviewed by the Board using the same review method used for variances to Corpora;
VIII. Resolved, that small local gatherings including, but not limited to: guild meetings, officer meetings, and local martial activities including archery and thrown weapons shall remain at the discretion of the Crown and Kingdom Seneschal, in accordance with province, territory, state, and local health guidelines. Virtual events as alternatives continue to be a viable option;
IX. Resolved, that enforcement of this resolution will be handled by the Society Seneschal and President of SCA Inc.; and,
X. Resolved, that the SCA Board of Directors commends the hard-working officers, royalty, membership, and participants who have allowed the SCA to continue to flourish virtually as we lift this suspension and transition forward in a manner consistent with recommended health and safety standards.
The President and the Society Seneschal have been given the responsibility of implementing the resumption of events within the rules above and adjusting the strictures as needed with Board approval.
As per item (H) in the Resolution, SCA, Inc. has available the Event Module for the mandatory pre-registration process. All kingdoms are encouraged to utilize this tool. More information will be forthcoming from the SCA Accounting Specialist, Mazelle Attiya. If you would like to contact her about this available option, she can be reached at mazelle@sca.org.
Questions or comments should be sent directly to president@sca.org and seneschal@sca.org or your board Ombudsman.
This is our first step toward the resumption of SCA events. Working with the corporate officers and with input from the various kingdoms, we will continue to assess the pandemic environment and make changes going forward as needed, either to add further restrictions or relax existing ones as the situation allows.
No matter what safety precautions we put in place, there is no substitute for each individual being educated about the risk to themselves and their loved ones, and making responsible choices to protect themselves and others from this virus.
We look forward to seeing many of you, in person and in garb, as we prepare to begin in-person events again.
Link to document: Resolution to Lift Suspension of In-Person Activity in the SCA as of June 1st, 2021