21 resolutions in 21 days – Episode 4

Why we are ditching the legal-ese

Driftwood: “The party of the first part shall be known in this contract as the party of the first part.” How do you like that? That’s pretty neat, eh?

Fiorello: No. It’s no good.

Driftwood: What’s the matter with it?

Fiorello: I don’t know, let’s hear it again.

Driftwood: “The party of the first part shall be known in this contract as the party of the first part.”

Fiorello: Sounds a little better this time.

Driftwood: Well, it grows on you … Would you like to hear it once more?

Fiorello: Ah … just the first part.

Driftwood: What do you mean, the party of the first part?

Fiorello: No. The first part of the party of the first part.

We can’t think of a more convincing case to rework the AMT Constitution in plain English than this glorious exchange in the Marx Brothers “Night at the Opera”. In fact, at the risk of losing you from this blog …

The AMT Constitution is in desperate need of a sanity clause.

Reworking the constitution plain English means it works better for everyone. Members can understand their rights and responsibilities so they can participate more meaningfully in AMT’s governance. And Board members can make decisions without needing special legal counsel.

Using clear, straightforward language shows we’re committed to transparency and inclusion. As a bonus, plain English saves money too – we won’t need expensive legal advice just to figure out what our own constitution means.

Any questions?

AMT is hosting two discussion sessions via Zoom for members who have any questions about the proposed Constitutional changes.

Thursday 18 September @ 7.30pm Register here

Tuesday 30 September @ 12.30pm Register here

This is Episode 4 in our blockbuster blog bonanza “21 Resolutions in 21 Days”, exploring the cases for constitutional change that will be considered at the upcoming Special General Meeting on October 19. Each change is designed to strengthen AMT’s governance and better serve members.

Tomorrow: The best dollar you’ll never spend or the prenup you never knew you needed …