Part V
To my colleagues in peace
I am gladdened to no end, that these discussions about what tactics we
need to develop
to embrace what diversity we can, and discover techniques to treat those
expressions
that fall outside our message, or are counter productive to our message,
should help to clarify our path ahead.
The relevancy of these dialogues are only made more poignant, by a news
report I heard last night on NPR concerning a "vigil" held by our "sisters
for choice" in front of the supreme court. During their peaceful vigil they
were "confronted" (details will no doubt be heard) by a group of "Anti-Abortion
Activists".
One would conclude from the early reports, that there were shouting
matches, and possibly worse. These dialogues (Notes on Dissent)
whose goal was to raise the issue
of what is acceptable behavior, what are the acceptable messages, and how
we deal with
a variety of potential messages, and individuals whom we CANNOT INCLUDE,
can prevent our actions from deteriorating from a peaceful protest into a
street brawl. Which would serve only the WARMONGERS ends. And compromise
our impact. Those who seek to divide us, serve the WARMONGERS ends.
While I appreciate the generosity of spirit that would attribute complete
tolerance to all speech, to these dialogues, that could not be the intent,
for those who would closely read
the text, would discover the phrase "offensive, and counter productive"
speech and messages is the focus of these discussions.
The (Notes
on Dissent) discussions have been undertaken in the "FEARLESS BELIEF"
that all who would work together under the banner of peace, will make every
effort to find ways of bridging what is unique and different in this broad
coalition, and wisely refrain, from "characterizations" and other counterproductive
labeling.
Every action that we can complete, where we include the broadest assemblage
of those prepared to work cooperatively and peacefully against this unlawful
war, is an action that we can be proud of, and will reach out to the broader
population who seeks "social cover" to reach toward peace.
Tolerance and the boundaries of inclusion, and what we do about
those, who would not accept our gentle suggestions is the purpose of these
dialogues, and all those who have joined in that spirit have done this organization
a great service. Thanks!
And I now address those who have felt that all political correctness has
not been observed,
I hope that you have felt the opportunity to bring your area of personal
and social concerns before the entire group. I also want to thank those
who shared their opinion, without hesitation, and without "name-calling,
flag-waving, bull-baiting and prejudice". This consensus building can be
"spicy",
I would urge that those interested should please examine the first (Note on Dissent.)
I suggested some tactics, that might assist in dealing with the disruptive
and offensive messages, and messengers. Anyone interested in assisting in
adding to this proposed list of tactics please forward them to me under the
heading FRICTION REDUCTION .
I would like to suggest be produce a list of tactics, to deal with those
situations. If you are moved to add your suggested "friction reduction"
tactics everyone is welcome. And as this is not new ground, any additional
sources beyond the delightful minds of the CPOWI community, please forward
those sources as well.
These should deal with how do we respond to :
----------------------------------------------------
shouters
counter demonstrators
offensive signs
speakers who are offensive at our podium
and other potentially disruptive occurrences
All suggestions that offer, peaceful, polite and reasoned responses will
be collected and presented to the CPOWI steering committee. I want to thank
all who have participated in the spirit that these dialogues have aimed for.
And for those who have felt uncomfortable
or have felt that their unique sensitivities have not been closely observed,
please feel free to share your thoughts.
One of the beauties of E-SPEECH, is that everyone speaks at the same volume,
and every voice is heard, the shy and the irrepressible as well. SPEAK-UP!
Thanks to everyone who has participated in the spirit of cooperation and
good fellowship. PEACE TO US ALL!
Let us take a lesson, from the incident at the Supreme Court last night
(Jan 1/22/03)
may we never have an action; where our wisest
heads cannot keep us all patient, peaceful and NON-VIOLENT.
One final personal word; I have been producing events professionally for
over twenty years; I believe, if you invite a group, or especially the public,
to an event; it is incumbent that the event observe every nicety of civil
discourse and decorum.
May the blessings of all the universe, every god and goddess and the silence
of the solar winds bless us, and the good hearted guide our way. Joined
as I am by fellow peace seekers, I fear no war-mongering son-of a-cia man.
Peace to us all, peace to us all
solidarity & peace
rick |
