Understanding and Managing Public Meeting Etiquette: The Role of 'Order' and 'Cancel Culture'

Public meetings can be some of the most powerful tools for community engagement and decision-making. However, they often come with unique challenges, particularly when it comes to maintaining order and decorum. One common perception is that shouting during these meetings is a form of public display or personal preference. However, the demand for 'order,' which is a rule from the chair, serves a crucial function in ensuring that the discussion remains organized and fair. This article explores the importance of 'order' and how it relates to the broader phenomenon of 'cancel culture,' all within the context of running a public meeting.

The Role of 'Order' in Public meetings

'Order' in a public meeting is not merely about personal preference or sentiment. It is a set of rules and protocols designed to ensure that only those who are designated to speak at a particular time and in a specific order do so. These rules are essential for making the meeting as effective as possible, as they prevent chaos and ensure that the discussion remains focused and relevant.

For many, the concept of 'order' may seem foreign or even bizarre. This is because it is often associated with formal settings like mock-parliaments or specific rulebooks such as "Robert's Rules of Order," which many people are not familiar with. However, these rules and protocols are designed to make social interactions more successful. Children should be introduced to these concepts early in their education, making them aware of the importance of protocols in a group setting, even if they don't need to become experts.

The Historical Context of Public Meeting Protocols

The principles behind 'order' in public meetings can be traced back to historical conflicts and negotiations. For example, the tension between the rich and powerful and the less privileged can often be seen in discussions about infrastructure and development. A case in point is when wealthy elites in society desired to install underground power lines to preserve their scenic views, compelling everyone, including the elderly and economically disadvantaged, to bear the costs. Such actions can have severe consequences for those least able to afford them.

When faced with the threat of adversity, individuals and groups often stand their ground and demand to be heard. This was the situation with the survey the author conducted to expose inconsistencies in the plans for power lines. By standing on the chair, the author put pressure on the city to take their findings seriously. The city, initially resistant, ultimately had to acknowledge the truth, leading to a resolution that protected the elderly neighbors and allowed the power lines to be reconsidered.

The Intersection of 'Order' and 'Cancel Culture'

The principles of 'order' in a public meeting are often misunderstood in the broader context of 'cancel culture.' Cancel culture, a term now popularly associated with the swift undoing or condemnation of unpopular opinions, can sometimes resemble a demand for immediate silence. However, if understood in the context of public meetings where 'order' ensures that one can make a reasoned case, the term takes on a different significance.

Standing on the chair in a public meeting is not merely a display of control or a refusal to be ignored. It is an attempt to follow the rules and ensure that different voices are heard in a structured and fair manner. While 'cancel culture' can be seen as a manifestation of an urgent response to offensive or problematic behavior, it can also disrupt the very mechanisms designed to ensure a fair and orderly discussion.

Conclusion

Public meetings require a delicate balance between the freedom of expression and the need for order. The principles of 'order,' as outlined in 'Robert's Rules of Order,' serve as a foundation for ensuring that these discussions are meaningful and productive. By understanding and adhering to these rules, participants can contribute to a more effective and respectful exchange of ideas, making public meetings a powerful tool for social change.