Annual Board Meeting (Page Two)
Democracy is a fractious and often messy process, and the Atheist Alliance's
board meeting this year most assuredly demonstrated that. It is also, though,
a wondrous thing, allowing the very best solutions to be found, and it was this
that the Alliance's board meeting demonstrated to perfection. Guests are welcome
to visit and see exactly what happens; we have no secrets.
|
American Atheists
Bobbie Kirkhart has approached the president of American Atheists, the organization
founded by Madalyn Murray O'Hair, and from which AAI separated, to discuss resolving
differences and conflicts in the two organizations' annual conventions, specifically
to arrange a combined or alternating annual convention. The board voted to support
her continued efforts in this, with the proviso that she report the results of these
activities to the board.
|
Name Change and Member Society Definitions
It became clear during the preboard meeting that the definitions of member groups was
not clear. There are currently two member groups in other countries (Finland and India)
that do not have the same status as groups in the United States, but are not required
to meet the same standards, in particular, they are not required to be democratic.
That brought up the question of whether the foreign groups could apply for matching funds.
The concern was heightened by the possibility of a Canadian group, such as the Humanist
Association of Manitoba in Winnipeg, becoming an AAI member. Thus, Richard Russell
presented a motion to redefine member groups, and create two clear classes, only one of
which can apply for matching grants.
As an adjunct, the matter of the Atheist Alliance's name came up. It was moved,
seconded, and passed by consensus to change the name from Atheist Alliance, Inc.
to Atheist Alliance International.
Officers Elected
This was easily the simplest thing that the board did. All nominees were
elected by consensus. They are:
- President: Marie Alena Castle
- Vice President: Joe Zemel
- Treasurer: Tim Lamb
- Assistant: Treasurer: Jack Massen (appointed by President Castle)
- Secretary: Ed Golly
- Assistant Secretary: James Young (appointed by President Castle)
|
|
