[O29] Monday coalition meeting

[DAVID KEIL]

This is to pass on ideas I've heard about procedure Monday (6pm, MGA).
Some reports we need to hear and discuss are: program; permits and
logistics; outreach (including leafleting, endorsements, and regional
outreach); and finances. We usually start with minutes from the
previous meeting, choice of note taker for current meeting, and choice
of facilitator for next meeting, plus intros. I've heard that some
committees need to meet, so if people agree, then between 7:00 and
7:30 we could break the general meeting up into committees.

The last item on the general agenda would be demands, to discuss and
vote on the following:
- Keith's motion (10/7) to add "Stop the Racist Attacks on the Black,
Latin@, Arab & Muslim Communities" to the list of central demands or
slogans;
- A possible motion by Amee (10/8) to add "Militarism reinforces
racism, sexism, & homophobia" to the central slogans;
- Possible other slogans, such as "Stop the Racist Rhetoric" (R.
Miller 10/8) or ones based on Gustavo's post (10/8).

It seems that most activists want most of the general meeting to be
about important details of preparing the action, but there seems to be
a consensus also to hear proposals on demands. Everyone wants an
atmosphere of respect, collaboration, and friendship, even if we cast
divided votes and sometimes feel angry with each other. One way
suggested to ensure this atmosphere in the demands discussion is to
hear very briefly how everyone feels; then after a brief silence, to
take motions, take brief discussion, and vote.

Informal discussion tonight at Assembling Peace in JP, and discussions
Sunday and Monday, will be an important way to prepare for the
too-short formal discussion Monday night.

David