21 resolutions in 21 days – Episode 8
When political correctness hasn’t gone mad but is actually rather sound
Sometimes we stumble across AMT artefacts that make us cringe. It’s surprising how often these cringe-inducing relics are hiding in plain sight. This proposed change to the Constitution – to remove any references to members being of “unsound mind” – is a perfect example. We reckon this one is at least 30 years overdue but we also take some comfort in the fact that even the NSW government didn’t get around to thinking that it might need to be removed from the electoral act until 2013.
Forgive the terrible pun but this one really is a no brainer. “Unsound mind” is vague, stigmatising, and gives no clear guidance on what actually warrants action. It potentially requires accessing highly sensitive medical information that AMT Directors are not qualified to assess anyway. The proposed new wording “the person repeatedly acts in ways that disrupt the Association’s operations” focuses on repeatedly problematic behaviour rather than a vague and insupportable diagnosis that AMT is neither qualified to make nor legally positioned to uphold.
Are you joining us at the Special General Meeting on October 19?
All AMT members are welcome to attend. Please register here.
Unable to attend but still want to exercise your democratic right? Complete a proxy voting form and return it to AMT Head Office.
This is Episode 8 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: He who pays the piper calls the tune. But first we need to figure out who’s actually paying.
