2023-07-03: Yumi Foundation Press Conference

• Resource: 2023-07-03: Yumi Foundation Press Conference
• Subject: Yumi Foundation Press Conference
• Groups: 
• Date: U.C. 0097 07 03
• Summary: Sayla Mass finally confirms the rumours that have been flying since the fighting in Dakar.

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After weeks of silence, the Yumi Foundation has announced a statement to the press.

Dr Sayla Mass, MD stands at a podium, in front of reporters. She's dressed smartly, in a teal skirt suit that has become part of her standard look. She is carefully made up to hide the tiredness on her face, but even that has been less than usual.

"Good evening." Sayla says, and the gathered press hush.

"Tonight I am addressing the rumours that came out of Dakar more than a month ago. I will not mince words- they're true. I am the daughter of Zeon Zum Deikun. My birth name is Artesia Som Deikun. And yes, Casval Rem Deikun- Char Aznable as he is better known- is my brother."

She takes a beat, to let it sink in. The noise among the press grows louder, and Sayla lets it, for a few moments.

She takes a deep breath. "I founded the Yumi Foundation with funds that came from assets that my adoptive parents and their allies managed to hide from the Zabi Regime. Our only ties to the Republic of Zeon are the ones published in our yearly financial statements, and we have never and will never support the Sleeves or any other Neo Zeon movement."

"I am fully aware that now knowing of my identity, some of you may choose to withdraw your funding. That is your choice, but the Yumi Foundation is more than just me. It is thousands of people who have made efforts to help those harmed by warfare and institutional neglect. It is the beneficiaries who will suffer from your decision, and I would ask you, if you pull your funding after this announcement- who was it you were intending to help?"

Sayla makes eye contact with the camera, her blue eyes fierce with determination. "The Yumi Foundation will continue as it has always done. To help people. Who I was born as does not change that. I am not my father, nor am I my brother." She outstretches a hand towards the audience. "I am still Sayla Mass, the woman who founded this organization. My goal remains the same, as does the foundation's- to make the Earthsphere a better place, as slow and as hard as the work may be. If you still believe in that goal, please, stand with us."

She waits a few seconds more, before lowering her hand. "Thank you for your time." With that, she walks off stage, and a spokesperson comes to the stage. Calls of 'Dr Mass' and 'Dr Deikun' come up from the press, but Sayla leaves them behind.

"Dr Mass will not be answering questions at this time. We ask that you respect the privacy of Dr Mass and her family..."

The voice fades as she goes backstage. She'll be leaving almost immediately-

She has somewhere far, far more important to be right now.