A Message from MAD
Dear friends,
We’re reaching out in light of the recent news about past working conditions at noma. Like many, we found the reports deeply disturbing and want to state plainly: abuse of any type is antithetical to our values.
As you may know, René has announced his resignation from the MAD board. Moving forward, please know that our dedication to MAD’s mission remains absolute as we work to build a more equitable and sustainable hospitality industry.
Our Academy programs, in particular, were created to help confront a systemic culture of aggression and abuse and begin breaking that cycle. The past weeks have made it clear that there is still much more work to be done.
We’re committed to doing that work and believe hospitality should offer the kind of work we would be proud to see our own children pursue: work that is fulfilling, safe, and dignified.
At this moment, we’re taking time to listen and better understand how we can support our community in meaningful and immediate ways. As our advocates, we truly value your thoughts and ideas, please don’t hesitate to reach out (info@madfeed.co) to us.
MAD was built by people who believe this industry can be better, people like you, and we hope you’ll continue with us as we find new ways to move forward.
With gratitude,
Melina & the MAD team
Thank you for your apology and for publicly standing by your values. It helps fight the imposed silence on victims, survivors, and their supporters. There is no circumstance--professional or personal--that can morally or ethically rationalize, defend, or justify malicious harm. Everyone deserves humane treatment. Period.
All this public self-flagellation and apologizing is over the top and wrong headed. Deal with your issues internally, and don’t drag your customers into it. My sense is that anybody who had the great good fortune to work at Noma under any conditions whatsoever and add the opportunity to be inspired by the great work there as led by Rene should be profoundly grateful regardless of the rigor or difficulty of the working conditions