[Summit] SNA what's wrong

[e h]

I have been reading this list serve for some time, since I live in the
neighborhood.  I have considered joining SNA but have help back for several
reasons.
I am disabled.  I have been to one candidate forum but to no other
meetings. Some of the recent comments are interesting.   I'm just not sure
how inclusive SNA really is.

I have not lived here long.  Where I used to live I was active in a
neighborhood association that started out great but went down hill big
time.  Before I join SNA
I'd like to know that it's not going to be like the other group.  Here's
what happened.

Many of the projects started out great, with a good base on community
support.  Then, some, shall we say, strong personalities entered the
organization.  Three things happened at this point.
First, many of the project were "pet projects".  These people just had
these favorate projects and pressed everyone to work on them.   The second
things happened.   If you didn't agree with these folks, you were
stigmatized and things became uncomfortable.

I'm not argumentative and it didn't happen to me but sharp divisions lead
to name calling and people were ostracized.  These polarizing leaders made
sure to stroke board members they liked, making them feel good.  They
solicited board members who agreed with their pet projects.  It was
ridiculous and very uncomfortable for those of us who wanted the
organization to be inclusive.  It wasn't.  I left the organization before I
left the neighborhood.  Finally (third) it turned out that there was a
hidden political agenda. One of these individual became political active,
got money for the organization after endorsing a political candidate.  That
person eventually ran for office.  Those folks really used the community.

 I think such organizations are very important to the community and will
continue to watch and read.  By the way, my name is Ellen.  I don't think
people should have to give their names or attend meetings to make
observations or participate on line.  Those comments with requirements make
me wonder about the SNA.  Some of us just can't make meetings and we
shouldn't be criticized for trying to participate or comment on line
without attending meetings.  It may not be the way some folks like it, but
to be truly open you need to consider possible limitations.  No one knows
what Mr. Eng's limitations are.   If you're not inclusive you're not a good
organization.  Still, I do think that if people are involved in some formal
way with SNA (board, officers) they should id themselves.    I think that
board members and maybe the leaders of the SNA are commenting on the list
serve but don't identify themselves.
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