6/8/20
In this politically charged environment with social media revving up everyone’s emotions to the highest intensity, I was surprised at how much I liked this club. I had never been to a “politically correct” or “politically incorrect” club before. Not even sure what those terms mean anymore. The president greeted us enthusiastically and shared an interesting history of the club. It started off as a Republican club but then Democrats and liberals joined so they turned it into a “politically incorrect” club so everyone could feel comfortable sharing. At least that’s the way I understood it from the president.
I really like the idea of having a safe place to voice your opinion without all the name calling and shaming. Our club is similar in that we do have a fair amount of Democrats and Republicans and a few I don’t know what they are politically. Some members share their leanings in speeches but are always evaluated on the mechanics and not the content. That’s what we feel Toastmasters is all about; helping you deliver your message the best you can. I may not agree with what you are saying but I am here to help you in communicating that message better.
This was the first time I had seen a hybrid meeting. They call it a “mixed” meeting. There were a group of members at the president's house enjoying a taco bar (which looked delicious) and then participants on Zoom. Steve and I were visitors as well as the area director and division director. I was very interested in seeing how this was conducted since our club is thinking about going in that direction when we are able to meet again at our club venue. This was their first time doing a mixed meeting and they are still trying to work out the kinks; however, I thought they handled it well as a first time.
The speeches and table topics revolved around the issues of today, George Floyd, Black Lives Matter, the pandemic, the shut-down, protesters, etc. They didn’t shy away from these politically charged topics; they eagerly jumped into the fray and gave their opinion. I appreciate that all the opinions, whether I agree or not, were delivered in a calm and respectful way. There was no “I’m right, you’re wrong” attitude. No naming the other side as the enemy in an US vs THEM mentality. Each person had a safe space to form their words in an organized manner. No one was trying to persuade another to join their side. I found this very refreshing and disarming. I wish we could all do that with each other. Maybe we could learn to listen to each other and understand the other side.
If I could give them a little feedback being “politically correct” that I am:
- The president said they are a fairly new club and have only 10 members. I think they have a fantastic club and could really use help with some better PR about their club, especially their website. It needs to be updated, have more pictures, maybe have members put info about themselves. This is the kind of club we need right now at this time in the world.
- The Table Topics Master asked a table topic question to one of the speakers that night. I believe he has not served in this role much, but I would recommend to him to ask people who have not given speeches that day the Table Topic questions so more people can have a chance to speak.
Last words:
I appreciate the president taking the time to explain everything in detail what they do in their club from toastmaster ballots to name cards. If we were looking for a club to join, this is one we might consider. The members were very friendly and welcoming to us. One of the members gave me and my husband a challenge to write a “handwritten” letter to the club. I guess in today's high-tech world handwritten words are becoming obsolete. We both agreed to take up that challenge. Now I just have to remember how to do that. Where do you even find a stamp and an envelope?
So thanks for letting us visit you Politically Incorrect, keep up the good work! Who knows you may see us in the future!
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