Today we commemorate the birth of the Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. The legacy of Dr. King’s work for civil rights and peace are as important today as they have ever been. We are inspired by Dr. King’s message of tolerance and inclusion as we go about our work and in our relationships with one another. Traditionally, today has been celebrated as a day of service in honor of Dr. King. Current conditions in the pandemic make coming together to serve a challenge. Instead, let’s use this day to honor Dr. King’s legacy by caring for one another and ourselves. Small acts of service to one another can add up to have a large impact.

We also work to honor Dr. King’s legacy by striving to improve diversity and inclusion at Equity Residential so we can all contribute and thrive. We are early in our journey but I know that together we will continue to make progress.

Dr. King lived in a very challenging time for our country. Once again, our country is facing a difficult period as we are gripped by the pandemic and continuing civil unrest. I am confident that our country and business will persevere and thrive once more. In this tough time, I am especially proud of all of you and how you are supporting each other and our customers. I hear amazing stories every day of on site team members filling in for sick colleagues and corporate and property management going the extra mile for residents and fellow employees.

Thank you for all you do every day to create a culture of inclusion and belonging at Equity Residential and for taking such good care of each other and our residents in these trying times! You are truly the best.

Stay well,

Mark