To our seller community,
You’ve heard from me often about the impact that COVID-19 has had on the eBay business – how we’re adjusting and how we’re supporting you. But in the midst of an unprecedented year, the events of the past week have affected us once again.
Last night, our new CEO Jamie Iannone addressed the eBay employee population about the unrest that’s sweeping across the U.S. To quote him:
“Right now, during the global pandemic, we’re all in the habit of saying ‘stay safe’ or ‘I hope you and your family are safe and healthy.’ This moment exposes two difficult realities. Many of our black colleagues, friends and neighbors never feel completely safe. Not at work, in a car, sidewalk, park or even their own home. This is often true for people of color from all backgrounds. And, communities of color are being disproportionately affected by COVID-19 in the U.S.
Although I can’t fully understand what the black community and people of color experience on a daily basis, I am committed to learning more. And, I can make clear to everyone that this company stands for justice. Racism, bigotry, xenophobia and bias, whether blatant or implicit, is contrary to who we are at eBay. Period.”
Many of you have reached out and asked how eBay is doing our part to help. Our community is diverse and we embrace people of all backgrounds - and we also know our sellers stand in support of each other. eBay is committed to listening, learning and acting; and our purpose is to create opportunity for everyone – regardless of their race or ethnicity. All around us, entire industries are coming together to fight for change, and one of these events is happening tomorrow, June 2. Dubbed “Blackout Tuesday,” major record labels have vowed to take a day off from work – to disconnect and focus on reconnecting with their communities.
We have thousands of sellers, many of them people of color, who make their living selling items in the music category – from vinyl and amplifiers to guitars and turntables. For many of you, closing down for one day just isn’t an option, even if you would like nothing more than to show support and stand in solidarity with anyone who suffers discrimination.
eBay in the U.S. will donate all fees that we collect on June 2 from items sold in the music categories to a charity that supports equality in America. We want you to always be proud to be a part of the eBay community, as we partner with you, and to endeavor to be a force for good.
You can rest assured that we will continue to work hard – to do the right thing as a company and to give you the freedom you need to show support for your communities.
As always, thank you.
Jordan Sweetnam
SVP + General Manager, eBay North America
