Earlier in the year, I wrote about conflict and the correct way to deal with conflict if it arises.
I have had quite a large response from this article, with people approaching me in person and by email commenting that they had experienced some form of conflict where they did not know who to turn to.

It is each and everyone’s responsibility to take that first step by listening, and to assist wherever they possibly can. Presidents, Committees and members check with the members in your clubs to see that people are OK. What may seem like a minor problem can be a momentous situation to some. A friendly ear can sometimes be all that people may need. It may be just a misunderstanding.

As Toastmasters, we know that being able to communicate effectively is one of the most important skills in life. It is communication that allows our clubs and members to flourish.

If you are experiencing any type of conflict and do not know who to turn to, please do not hesitate to contact your President or Committee member and tell them of your concerns.

I am also always available to listen and to assist you by steering you in the direction for the correct procedure or person to approach. Contact me at pat.king@toastmastersd17.org

Each and every person reacts to situations in a different way, and what offends one may not necessarily affect another.  Without becoming the fun police, let’s remember all the following as guidelines.

Constitution

Policy 3.0: Ethics and Conduct

Harassment and Bullying

Toastmasters International prohibits all types of harassment and bullying. This includes, but is not limited to, sexual, verbal, physical, and visual harassment and bullying (including electronically).

A. Creating an intimidating, offensive, or hostile environment, which includes conduct, comments, or conditions of an offensive, unwelcome, or sexual nature altering the conditions under which an individual experience the Toastmasters program is prohibited. Specifically:

1. Persistent singling out of individuals.
2. Shouting or raising one’s voice at individuals in public or private.
3. Not allowing individuals to speak or express themselves.
4. Personal insults and use of offensive nicknames.
5. Repeated criticism of personal matters.
6. Ignoring or interrupting individuals at meetings.
7. Spreading rumours and gossip regarding individuals.

B. Unwelcome physical contact or physical abuse such as pushing, fighting, kicking, hitting, or shoving, and threats of physical abuse, are prohibited.

C. Inappropriate touching, lewd jokes, displaying or writing explicit or sexually suggestive material, and repeated unwelcome requests for a sexual or dating relationship are prohibited.

D. Unwelcome advances, requests for sexual favours, and other unwelcome verbal, written, or physical conduct, including obscene gestures, are prohibited.

E. Making the submission to or the rejection of such conduct the basis of participation or advancement decisions is prohibited.

F. Retaliating or discriminating against any member for reporting harassment is prohibited.

Parliamentarian Q&A Tip for December

Question: If I don’t vote in a club situation, does that mean my vote doesn’t count?

Answer: Silence gives consent. Those who do not vote to allow the decision to be made by those who do vote.  Use your vote wisely.

I wish you all a Merry Christmas and the very best 2022.
For any questions, please contact me at pat.king@toastmastersd17.org

Patricia (Pat) King
Parliamentarian 2021-22
District 17 Toastmasters International