[Massachusetts-NFB] Concerns Regarding Board Meeting Communication and Conduct

[ladyshirl519 at gmail.com]

Dear Members of the NFB of Massachusetts Board,

As both a chapter president and a member of the National Federation of the Blind of Massachusetts, I would like to express some concerns regarding this evening’s board meeting.

My first concern relates to communication about the meeting itself. Earlier today, I was informed that the meeting would be closed due to an executive session. However, I later learned from another member that a Zoom link was expected to be distributed for the meeting. Neither that member nor I received such an email. In order to attend, I had to search through older emails to locate the Zoom information.

When I joined the meeting, I noticed that several individuals who were not board members were already present. This raises a concern about consistency and transparency. If non-board members were permitted to attend all or part of the meeting, then information about the meeting and Zoom access should have been communicated equally to all interested members. Conversely, if the meeting was intended to be closed, then attendance should have been limited accordingly. The appearance that some members received access while others did not creates confusion and concern regarding the process.

My second concern involves the treatment of our affiliate treasurer during the meeting. The treasurer was recognized and had the floor while expressing concerns and disagreement regarding a matter under discussion. Unfortunately, I observed multiple interruptions while he was speaking. In particular, the affiliate president, first vice president, and other board members spoke over him before he had finished presenting his thoughts.

Whether or not individuals agreed with his position is not the issue. Every board member and officer deserves the opportunity to express their views without being interrupted, talked over, or dismissed. Respectful dialogue and professional conduct are essential to effective leadership and productive governance. Disagreements are inevitable, but they should be handled in a manner that allows all voices to be heard.

I am sharing these concerns because I believe our affiliate should strive to model openness, fairness, respect, and professionalism in both our communications and our meetings. I hope the board will give thoughtful consideration to these matters going forward.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Shirley Dorris
President, Cambridge Chapter
National Federation of the Blind of Massachusetts


Cell;
615-598-5020
Email;
Ladyshirl519 at gmail.com

“Walk by faith not by sight”COR 5;7