[arrl-odv:30393] Confidential
Hi all: Yesterday evening the Officers received the email below. The Officers have been discussing what to do and decided on the following: 1. Forward a copy to ODV toassure that you knew about it. Perhaps some of you have received a similaremail already or will receive one in the future. 2. Inform the Board thatBarry will engage a PR firm to review and advise on: A.) draft response to theindividual B.) whether we should issuea policy statement to ARRL members and if so what it should say 3. Share the suggestionsfrom the PR firm with the Board so that the Board can decide on any policy actionto be taken. 73,Rick - K5UR -----Original Message----- From: Christopher Broholm <kc3mgf@gmail.com> To: K5UR@arrl.org Cc: k1twf@arrl.org; W6RGG@arrl.org; w6rod@arrl.org; n1vxy@arrl.org; K7GM@arrl.org <K7GM@ARRL.ORG>; dmiddleton@arrl.org Sent: Fri, Jun 5, 2020 7:16 pm Subject: ATTN: ARRL against racial injustice Dear Mr. Roderick and officers of the ARRL, As you’re aware if you’ve watched the news or participate in social media, there has been a large and appropriate response to the murder of Black Americans by police officers taking place over the last several days. Our society is being traumatized by the systemic, institutional racism that pervades the structures that govern and rule our citizenry. Our Black neighbors live in fear every second of every day that their name will be the next that needs to be remembered. That their son or daughter may be the next Black citizen murdered in the streets by people who swore to protect them.As leaders, you have a responsibility to Black ARRL members and hams to openly and loudly affirm that they are safe from racism and discrimination within the ARRL. That you vehemently oppose and condemn the actions of the police officer in Minneapolis who murdered George Floyd in cold blood, along with the hundreds who went before him. I am writing to you as a fellow ham and member of your organization to request that the ARRL take a stance against racial injustice. Events over the last few weeks have caused me to reflect on what organizations I choose to support and what organizations represent me. It has also made me reflect on the hobby as a whole being a predominately white, male hobby. It is imperative, no, necessary that organizations such as yourselves take a firm stance against racism, against police brutality, against the needless killing of black people in America and to take corrective actions to address these systemic issues. Like you, I care deeply for the future of amateur radio and for the ARRL and as such its representative body should be future-facing. I care about, and indeed you should too care about what the ARRL represents. Does it represent the status quo and everything that has brought us to this moment or does it represent the future? We should be working towards a future that empowers black voices and allows them to be heard on the air and off the air. Ask yourself how, for example, a black person interested in amateur radio would feel if the ARRL takes no stance and by its silence tacitly supports the continued genocide of black americans? Saying nothing makes you complicit in the structures of white supremacy, and alienates potential black hams from joining your organization. I want to see amateur radio thrive, and I want it to be more representative of this diverse and beautiful country. That will not happen unless the problem is recognized and addressed by everyone. I implore you to take the following actions towards being inclusive and anti racist: - Release a statement condemning recent instances of police brutality against Black Americans, and affirm your stance as being an organization that aims to be inclusive of all races. - Develop a plan to address systemic racism within ARRL’s organizational structure. Ignoring this is not an option. We do a deep disservice to ourselves by turning a blind eye and pretending that these events aren’t impacting all of us, particularly our Black members and their families.I am asking this of you because I care deeply about amateur radio. We have a responsibility and we must stay true to our values. If the ARRL is truly a great organization to be a part of, we must continue to prove it. Our members deserve this, our culture deserves this. To this end, there are many anti racism educators that make a living by doing this work and it would behoove the ARRL to pay for them to come in and teach on what is happening. I have recommendations and references for these educators.As a member, I’m ready to help craft a response. Please feel free to contact me. I look forward to being part of the response and reminding ARRL members and hams everywhere that we care about their safety, wellbeing, and right to exist and live free from racism and injustice.Sincerely, Christopher BroholmKC3MGF
Hi Rick, While this doesn’t directly address this, Within the past few days I’ve publicly and loudly expressed support for and joined OMIK who is perhaps our best example of how hams have faced and defeated racism. OMIKradio.org 73 Ria N2RJ On Sat, Jun 6, 2020 at 6:04 PM Roderick, Rick, K5UR via arrl-odv < arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org> wrote:
Hi all:
Yesterday evening the Officers received the email below. The Officers have been discussing what to do and decided on the following:
1. Forward a copy to ODV to assure that you knew about it. Perhaps some of you have received a similar email already or will receive one in the future.
2. Inform the Board that Barry will engage a PR firm to review and advise on:
A.) draft response to the individual
B.) whether we should issue a policy statement to ARRL members and if so what it should say
3. Share the suggestions from the PR firm with the Board so that the Board can decide on any policy action to be taken.
73, Rick - K5UR
-----Original Message----- From: Christopher Broholm <kc3mgf@gmail.com> To: K5UR@arrl.org Cc: k1twf@arrl.org; W6RGG@arrl.org; w6rod@arrl.org; n1vxy@arrl.org; K7GM@arrl.org <K7GM@ARRL.ORG>; dmiddleton@arrl.org Sent: Fri, Jun 5, 2020 7:16 pm Subject: ATTN: ARRL against racial injustice
Dear Mr. Roderick and officers of the ARRL, As you’re aware if you’ve watched the news or participate in social media, there has been a large and appropriate response to the murder of Black Americans by police officers taking place over the last several days. Our society is being traumatized by the systemic, institutional racism that pervades the structures that govern and rule our citizenry. Our Black neighbors live in fear every second of every day that their name will be the next that needs to be remembered. That their son or daughter may be the next Black citizen murdered in the streets by people who swore to protect them. As leaders, you have a responsibility to Black ARRL members and hams to openly and loudly affirm that they are safe from racism and discrimination within the ARRL. That you vehemently oppose and condemn the actions of the police officer in Minneapolis who murdered George Floyd in cold blood, along with the hundreds who went before him. I am writing to you as a fellow ham and member of your organization to request that the ARRL take a stance against racial injustice. Events over the last few weeks have caused me to reflect on what organizations I choose to support and what organizations represent me. It has also made me reflect on the hobby as a whole being a predominately white, male hobby. It is imperative, no, necessary that organizations such as yourselves take a firm stance against racism, against police brutality, against the needless killing of black people in America and to take corrective actions to address these systemic issues.
Like you, I care deeply for the future of amateur radio and for the ARRL and as such its representative body should be future-facing. I care about, and indeed you should too care about what the ARRL represents. Does it represent the status quo and everything that has brought us to this moment or does it represent the future? We should be working towards a future that empowers black voices and allows them to be heard on the air and off the air. Ask yourself how, for example, a black person interested in amateur radio would feel if the ARRL takes no stance and by its silence tacitly supports the continued genocide of black americans? Saying nothing makes you complicit in the structures of white supremacy, and alienates potential black hams from joining your organization. I want to see amateur radio thrive, and I want it to be more representative of this diverse and beautiful country. That will not happen unless the problem is recognized and addressed by everyone. I implore you to take the following actions towards being inclusive and anti racist:
1. Release a statement condemning recent instances of police brutality against Black Americans, and affirm your stance as being an organization that aims to be inclusive of all races. 2. Develop a plan to address systemic racism within ARRL’s organizational structure.
Ignoring this is not an option. We do a deep disservice to ourselves by turning a blind eye and pretending that these events aren’t impacting all of us, particularly our Black members and their families.I am asking this of you because I care deeply about amateur radio. We have a responsibility and we must stay true to our values. If the ARRL is truly a great organization to be a part of, we must continue to prove it. Our members deserve this, our culture deserves this. To this end, there are many anti racism educators that make a living by doing this work and it would behoove the ARRL to pay for them to come in and teach on what is happening. I have recommendations and references for these educators. As a member, I’m ready to help craft a response. Please feel free to contact me. I look forward to being part of the response and reminding ARRL members and hams everywhere that we care about their safety, wellbeing, and right to exist and live free from racism and injustice. Sincerely, Christopher Broholm KC3MGF
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
Rick, A response from an organization representing a hobby that encompasses people from all backgrounds seems appropriate. Giving reference to OMIKradio.org as Ria suggests would also be appropriate. In any case, a strong reiteration that the ARRL serves our community without regard to race, religion, etc., would be useful at this time. Thanks, Ria for the reference. 73, Art K0AIZ On 6/6/2020 5:17 PM, rjairam@gmail.com wrote:
Hi Rick,
While this doesn’t directly address this, Within the past few days I’ve publicly and loudly expressed support for and joined OMIK who is perhaps our best example of how hams have faced and defeated racism.
OMIKradio.org
73 Ria N2RJ
On Sat, Jun 6, 2020 at 6:04 PM Roderick, Rick, K5UR via arrl-odv <arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org <mailto:arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org>> wrote:
Hi all:
Yesterday evening the Officers received the email below. The Officers have been discussing what to do and decided on the following:
1. Forward a copy to ODV to assure that you knew about it. Perhaps some of you have received a similar email already or will receive one in the future. 2. Inform the Board that Barry will engage a PR firm to review and advise on: A.)draft response to the individual B.)whether we should issue a policy statement to ARRL members and if so what it should say 3. Share the suggestions from the PR firm with the Board so that the Board can decide on any policy action to be taken.
73, Rick - K5UR
-----Original Message----- From: Christopher Broholm <kc3mgf@gmail.com <mailto:kc3mgf@gmail.com>> To: K5UR@arrl.org <mailto:K5UR@arrl.org> Cc: k1twf@arrl.org <mailto:k1twf@arrl.org>; W6RGG@arrl.org <mailto:W6RGG@arrl.org>; w6rod@arrl.org <mailto:w6rod@arrl.org>; n1vxy@arrl.org <mailto:n1vxy@arrl.org>; K7GM@arrl.org <mailto:K7GM@arrl.org> <K7GM@ARRL.ORG <mailto:K7GM@ARRL.ORG>>; dmiddleton@arrl.org <mailto:dmiddleton@arrl.org> Sent: Fri, Jun 5, 2020 7:16 pm Subject: ATTN: ARRL against racial injustice
Dear Mr. Roderick and officers of the ARRL, As you’re aware if you’ve watched the news or participate in social media, there has been a large and appropriate response to the murder of Black Americans by police officers taking place over the last several days. Our society is being traumatized by the systemic, institutional racism that pervades the structures that govern and rule our citizenry. Our Black neighbors live in fear every second of every day that their name will be the next that needs to be remembered. That their son or daughter may be the next Black citizen murdered in the streets by people who swore to protect them. As leaders, you have a responsibility to Black ARRL members and hams to openly and loudly affirm that they are safe from racism and discrimination within the ARRL. That you vehemently oppose and condemn the actions of the police officer in Minneapolis who murdered George Floyd in cold blood, along with the hundreds who went before him. I am writing to you as a fellow ham and member of your organization to request that the ARRL take a stance against racial injustice. Events over the last few weeks have caused me to reflect on what organizations I choose to support and what organizations represent me. It has also made me reflect on the hobby as a whole being a predominately white, male hobby. It is imperative, no, necessary that organizations such as yourselves take a firm stance against racism, against police brutality, against the needless killing of black people in America and to take corrective actions to address these systemic issues.
Like you, I care deeply for the future of amateur radio and for the ARRL and as such its representative body should be future-facing. I care about, and indeed you should too care about what the ARRL represents. Does it represent the status quo and everything that has brought us to this moment or does it represent the future? We should be working towards a future that empowers black voices and allows them to be heard on the air and off the air. Ask yourself how, for example, a black person interested in amateur radio would feel if the ARRL takes no stance and by its silence tacitly supports the continued genocide of black americans? Saying nothing makes you complicit in the structures of white supremacy, and alienates potential black hams from joining your organization. I want to see amateur radio thrive, and I want it to be more representative of this diverse and beautiful country. That will not happen unless the problem is recognized and addressed by everyone. I implore you to take the following actions towards being inclusive and anti racist:
1. Release a statement condemning recent instances of police brutality against Black Americans, and affirm your stance as being an organization that aims to be inclusive of all races. 2. Develop a plan to address systemic racism within ARRL’s organizational structure.
Ignoring this is not an option. We do a deep disservice to ourselves by turning a blind eye and pretending that these events aren’t impacting all of us, particularly our Black members and their families.I am asking this of you because I care deeply about amateur radio. We have a responsibility and we must stay true to our values. If the ARRL is truly a great organization to be a part of, we must continue to prove it. Our members deserve this, our culture deserves this. To this end, there are many anti racism educators that make a living by doing this work and it would behoove the ARRL to pay for them to come in and teach on what is happening. I have recommendations and references for these educators. As a member, I’m ready to help craft a response. Please feel free to contact me. I look forward to being part of the response and reminding ARRL members and hams everywhere that we care about their safety, wellbeing, and right to exist and live free from racism and injustice. Sincerely, Christopher Broholm KC3MGF
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_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
I agree with Art, Ria and Rick. Now is thw time. 73,W2UDT
On June 6, 2020 at 6:26 PM "Arthur I. Zygielbaum" <aiz@ctwsoft.com> wrote:
Rick,
A response from an organization representing a hobby that encompasses people from all backgrounds seems appropriate. Giving reference to OMIKradio.org as Ria suggests would also be appropriate.
In any case, a strong reiteration that the ARRL serves our community without regard to race, religion, etc., would be useful at this time.
Thanks, Ria for the reference.
73, Art K0AIZ
On 6/6/2020 5:17 PM, rjairam@gmail.com mailto:rjairam@gmail.com wrote:
> >
Hi Rick,
While this doesn’t directly address this, Within the past few days I’ve publicly and loudly expressed support for and joined OMIK who is perhaps our best example of how hams have faced and defeated racism.
OMIKradio.org
73 Ria N2RJ
On Sat, Jun 6, 2020 at 6:04 PM Roderick, Rick, K5UR via arrl-odv < arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org mailto:arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org > wrote:
> > > Hi all:
Yesterday evening the Officers received the email below. The Officers have been discussing what to do and decided on the following:
1. Forward a copy to ODV to assure that you knew about it. Perhaps some of you have received a similar email already or will receive one in the future.
2. Inform the Board that Barry will engage a PR firm to review and advise on:
A.) draft response to the individual
B.) whether we should issue a policy statement to ARRL members and if so what it should say
3. Share the suggestions from the PR firm with the Board so that the Board can decide on any policy action to be taken.
73, Rick - K5UR
-----Original Message----- From: Christopher Broholm < kc3mgf@gmail.com mailto:kc3mgf@gmail.com > To: K5UR@arrl.org mailto:K5UR@arrl.org Cc: k1twf@arrl.org mailto:k1twf@arrl.org ; W6RGG@arrl.org mailto:W6RGG@arrl.org ; w6rod@arrl.org mailto:w6rod@arrl.org ; n1vxy@arrl.org mailto:n1vxy@arrl.org ; K7GM@arrl.org mailto:K7GM@arrl.org < K7GM@ARRL.ORG mailto:K7GM@ARRL.ORG >; dmiddleton@arrl.org mailto:dmiddleton@arrl.org Sent: Fri, Jun 5, 2020 7:16 pm Subject: ATTN: ARRL against racial injustice
Dear Mr. Roderick and officers of the ARRL,
As you’re aware if you’ve watched the news or participate in social media, there has been a large and appropriate response to the murder of Black Americans by police officers taking place over the last several days. Our society is being traumatized by the systemic, institutional racism that pervades the structures that govern and rule our citizenry. Our Black neighbors live in fear every second of every day that their name will be the next that needs to be remembered. That their son or daughter may be the next Black citizen murdered in the streets by people who swore to protect them.
As leaders, you have a responsibility to Black ARRL members and hams to openly and loudly affirm that they are safe from racism and discrimination within the ARRL. That you vehemently oppose and condemn the actions of the police officer in Minneapolis who murdered George Floyd in cold blood, along with the hundreds who went before him. I am writing to you as a fellow ham and member of your organization to request that the ARRL take a stance against racial injustice. Events over the last few weeks have caused me to reflect on what organizations I choose to support and what organizations represent me. It has also made me reflect on the hobby as a whole being a predominately white, male hobby. It is imperative, no, necessary that organizations such as yourselves take a firm stance against racism, against police brutality, against the needless killing of black people in America and to take corrective actions to address these systemic issues.
Like you, I care deeply for the future of amateur radio and for the ARRL and as such its representative body should be future-facing. I care about, and indeed you should too care about what the ARRL represents. Does it represent the status quo and everything that has brought us to this moment or does it represent the future? We should be working towards a future that empowers black voices and allows them to be heard on the air and off the air. Ask yourself how, for example, a black person interested in amateur radio would feel if the ARRL takes no stance and by its silence tacitly supports the continued genocide of black americans? Saying nothing makes you complicit in the structures of white supremacy, and alienates potential black hams from joining your organization. I want to see amateur radio thrive, and I want it to be more representative of this diverse and beautiful country. That will not happen unless the problem is recognized and addressed by everyone. I implore you to take the following actions towards being inclusive and anti racist:
1. Release a statement condemning recent instances of police brutality against Black Americans, and affirm your stance as being an organization that aims to be inclusive of all races. 2. Develop a plan to address systemic racism within ARRL’s organizational structure.
Ignoring this is not an option. We do a deep disservice to ourselves by turning a blind eye and pretending that these events aren’t impacting all of us, particularly our Black members and their families.I am asking this of you because I care deeply about amateur radio. We have a responsibility and we must stay true to our values. If the ARRL is truly a great organization to be a part of, we must continue to prove it. Our members deserve this, our culture deserves this. To this end, there are many anti racism educators that make a living by doing this work and it would behoove the ARRL to pay for them to come in and teach on what is happening. I have recommendations and references for these educators.
As a member, I’m ready to help craft a response. Please feel free to contact me. I look forward to being part of the response and reminding ARRL members and hams everywhere that we care about their safety, wellbeing, and right to exist and live free from racism and injustice.
Sincerely, Christopher Broholm KC3MGF
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org mailto:arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
> >
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org mailto:arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
> _______________________________________________
arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
Oops! The statement should read "now is the time". 73, Bill
On June 6, 2020 at 11:03 PM WILLIAM HUDZIK <whudzik@comcast.net> wrote:
I agree with Art, Ria and Rick. Now is thw time. 73,W2UDT
> > On June 6, 2020 at 6:26 PM "Arthur I. Zygielbaum" <aiz@ctwsoft.com> wrote:
Rick,
A response from an organization representing a hobby that encompasses people from all backgrounds seems appropriate. Giving reference to OMIKradio.org as Ria suggests would also be appropriate.
In any case, a strong reiteration that the ARRL serves our community without regard to race, religion, etc., would be useful at this time.
Thanks, Ria for the reference.
73, Art K0AIZ
On 6/6/2020 5:17 PM, rjairam@gmail.com mailto:rjairam@gmail.com wrote:
> > >
Hi Rick,
While this doesn’t directly address this, Within the past few days I’ve publicly and loudly expressed support for and joined OMIK who is perhaps our best example of how hams have faced and defeated racism.
OMIKradio.org
73 Ria N2RJ
On Sat, Jun 6, 2020 at 6:04 PM Roderick, Rick, K5UR via arrl-odv < arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org mailto:arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org > wrote:
> > > > Hi all:
Yesterday evening the Officers received the email below. The Officers have been discussing what to do and decided on the following:
1. Forward a copy to ODV to assure that you knew about it. Perhaps some of you have received a similar email already or will receive one in the future.
2. Inform the Board that Barry will engage a PR firm to review and advise on:
A.) draft response to the individual
B.) whether we should issue a policy statement to ARRL members and if so what it should say
3. Share the suggestions from the PR firm with the Board so that the Board can decide on any policy action to be taken.
73, Rick - K5UR
-----Original Message----- From: Christopher Broholm < kc3mgf@gmail.com mailto:kc3mgf@gmail.com > To: K5UR@arrl.org mailto:K5UR@arrl.org Cc: k1twf@arrl.org mailto:k1twf@arrl.org ; W6RGG@arrl.org mailto:W6RGG@arrl.org ; w6rod@arrl.org mailto:w6rod@arrl.org ; n1vxy@arrl.org mailto:n1vxy@arrl.org ; K7GM@arrl.org mailto:K7GM@arrl.org < K7GM@ARRL.ORG mailto:K7GM@ARRL.ORG >; dmiddleton@arrl.org mailto:dmiddleton@arrl.org Sent: Fri, Jun 5, 2020 7:16 pm Subject: ATTN: ARRL against racial injustice
Dear Mr. Roderick and officers of the ARRL,
As you’re aware if you’ve watched the news or participate in social media, there has been a large and appropriate response to the murder of Black Americans by police officers taking place over the last several days. Our society is being traumatized by the systemic, institutional racism that pervades the structures that govern and rule our citizenry. Our Black neighbors live in fear every second of every day that their name will be the next that needs to be remembered. That their son or daughter may be the next Black citizen murdered in the streets by people who swore to protect them.
As leaders, you have a responsibility to Black ARRL members and hams to openly and loudly affirm that they are safe from racism and discrimination within the ARRL. That you vehemently oppose and condemn the actions of the police officer in Minneapolis who murdered George Floyd in cold blood, along with the hundreds who went before him. I am writing to you as a fellow ham and member of your organization to request that the ARRL take a stance against racial injustice. Events over the last few weeks have caused me to reflect on what organizations I choose to support and what organizations represent me. It has also made me reflect on the hobby as a whole being a predominately white, male hobby. It is imperative, no, necessary that organizations such as yourselves take a firm stance against racism, against police brutality, against the needless killing of black people in America and to take corrective actions to address these systemic issues.
Like you, I care deeply for the future of amateur radio and for the ARRL and as such its representative body should be future-facing. I care about, and indeed you should too care about what the ARRL represents. Does it represent the status quo and everything that has brought us to this moment or does it represent the future? We should be working towards a future that empowers black voices and allows them to be heard on the air and off the air. Ask yourself how, for example, a black person interested in amateur radio would feel if the ARRL takes no stance and by its silence tacitly supports the continued genocide of black americans? Saying nothing makes you complicit in the structures of white supremacy, and alienates potential black hams from joining your organization. I want to see amateur radio thrive, and I want it to be more representative of this diverse and beautiful country. That will not happen unless the problem is recognized and addressed by everyone. I implore you to take the following actions towards being inclusive and anti racist:
1. Release a statement condemning recent instances of police brutality against Black Americans, and affirm your stance as being an organization that aims to be inclusive of all races. 2. Develop a plan to address systemic racism within ARRL’s organizational structure.
Ignoring this is not an option. We do a deep disservice to ourselves by turning a blind eye and pretending that these events aren’t impacting all of us, particularly our Black members and their families.I am asking this of you because I care deeply about amateur radio. We have a responsibility and we must stay true to our values. If the ARRL is truly a great organization to be a part of, we must continue to prove it. Our members deserve this, our culture deserves this. To this end, there are many anti racism educators that make a living by doing this work and it would behoove the ARRL to pay for them to come in and teach on what is happening. I have recommendations and references for these educators.
As a member, I’m ready to help craft a response. Please feel free to contact me. I look forward to being part of the response and reminding ARRL members and hams everywhere that we care about their safety, wellbeing, and right to exist and live free from racism and injustice.
Sincerely, Christopher Broholm KC3MGF
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org mailto:arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
> > >
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org mailto:arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
> > _______________________________________________
arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
>
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
Personally, I think this is an attempt to gain support for a cause that does not involve the ARRL. We have no dog in this fight. I do not think we should be involved in a response for a racial situation. We have never, nor shall we ever be, racially skewed, and to put out a message that we support, or do not support, a specific incident puts us in another class of organization. One geared towards a political front. In the 31 years I have been a ham, I have NEVER seen a racial twist on anything the league or any ham organization has been involved with. I would say we are considering your request, and will take it under advisement. As an SM for 15 years I was asked many, many times to support, or not support various things, and you have to put the good of the whole in your mind before making a stand on things. I know I made enemies over the years not supporting certain things, and that's OK. At the end of the day, things were better by not being involved. But that is only my opinion, and like all things, everyone has one. Consultation with a PR firm is a good idea, and the outcome of that shared to ODV would be requested. Mark, HDX On Sat, Jun 6, 2020 at 3:04 PM Roderick, Rick, K5UR via arrl-odv < arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org> wrote:
Hi all:
Yesterday evening the Officers received the email below. The Officers have been discussing what to do and decided on the following:
1. Forward a copy to ODV to assure that you knew about it. Perhaps some of you have received a similar email already or will receive one in the future.
2. Inform the Board that Barry will engage a PR firm to review and advise on:
A.) draft response to the individual
B.) whether we should issue a policy statement to ARRL members and if so what it should say
3. Share the suggestions from the PR firm with the Board so that the Board can decide on any policy action to be taken.
73, Rick - K5UR
-----Original Message----- From: Christopher Broholm <kc3mgf@gmail.com> To: K5UR@arrl.org Cc: k1twf@arrl.org; W6RGG@arrl.org; w6rod@arrl.org; n1vxy@arrl.org; K7GM@arrl.org <K7GM@ARRL.ORG>; dmiddleton@arrl.org Sent: Fri, Jun 5, 2020 7:16 pm Subject: ATTN: ARRL against racial injustice
Dear Mr. Roderick and officers of the ARRL, As you’re aware if you’ve watched the news or participate in social media, there has been a large and appropriate response to the murder of Black Americans by police officers taking place over the last several days. Our society is being traumatized by the systemic, institutional racism that pervades the structures that govern and rule our citizenry. Our Black neighbors live in fear every second of every day that their name will be the next that needs to be remembered. That their son or daughter may be the next Black citizen murdered in the streets by people who swore to protect them. As leaders, you have a responsibility to Black ARRL members and hams to openly and loudly affirm that they are safe from racism and discrimination within the ARRL. That you vehemently oppose and condemn the actions of the police officer in Minneapolis who murdered George Floyd in cold blood, along with the hundreds who went before him. I am writing to you as a fellow ham and member of your organization to request that the ARRL take a stance against racial injustice. Events over the last few weeks have caused me to reflect on what organizations I choose to support and what organizations represent me. It has also made me reflect on the hobby as a whole being a predominately white, male hobby. It is imperative, no, necessary that organizations such as yourselves take a firm stance against racism, against police brutality, against the needless killing of black people in America and to take corrective actions to address these systemic issues.
Like you, I care deeply for the future of amateur radio and for the ARRL and as such its representative body should be future-facing. I care about, and indeed you should too care about what the ARRL represents. Does it represent the status quo and everything that has brought us to this moment or does it represent the future? We should be working towards a future that empowers black voices and allows them to be heard on the air and off the air. Ask yourself how, for example, a black person interested in amateur radio would feel if the ARRL takes no stance and by its silence tacitly supports the continued genocide of black americans? Saying nothing makes you complicit in the structures of white supremacy, and alienates potential black hams from joining your organization. I want to see amateur radio thrive, and I want it to be more representative of this diverse and beautiful country. That will not happen unless the problem is recognized and addressed by everyone. I implore you to take the following actions towards being inclusive and anti racist:
1. Release a statement condemning recent instances of police brutality against Black Americans, and affirm your stance as being an organization that aims to be inclusive of all races. 2. Develop a plan to address systemic racism within ARRL’s organizational structure.
Ignoring this is not an option. We do a deep disservice to ourselves by turning a blind eye and pretending that these events aren’t impacting all of us, particularly our Black members and their families.I am asking this of you because I care deeply about amateur radio. We have a responsibility and we must stay true to our values. If the ARRL is truly a great organization to be a part of, we must continue to prove it. Our members deserve this, our culture deserves this. To this end, there are many anti racism educators that make a living by doing this work and it would behoove the ARRL to pay for them to come in and teach on what is happening. I have recommendations and references for these educators. As a member, I’m ready to help craft a response. Please feel free to contact me. I look forward to being part of the response and reminding ARRL members and hams everywhere that we care about their safety, wellbeing, and right to exist and live free from racism and injustice. Sincerely, Christopher Broholm KC3MGF
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
Agreed.Sent from my Verizon, Samsung Galaxy smartphone -------- Original message --------From: Mark J Tharp <kb7hdx@gmail.com> Date: 6/6/20 7:56 PM (GMT-06:00) To: Rick Roderick <k5ur@aol.com> Cc: arrl-odv@arrl.org Subject: [arrl-odv:30396] Re: Confidential Personally, I think this is an attempt to gain support for a cause that does not involve the ARRL. We have no dog in this fight. I do not think we should be involved in a response for a racial situation. We have never, nor shall we ever be, racially skewed, and to put out a message that we support, or do not support, a specific incident puts us in another class of organization. One geared towards a political front.In the 31 years I have been a ham, I have NEVER seen a racial twist on anything the league or any ham organization has been involved with. I would say we are considering your request, and will take it under advisement. As an SM for 15 years I was asked many, many times to support, or not support various things, and you have to put the good of the whole in your mind before making a stand on things. I know I made enemies over the years not supporting certain things, and that's OK. At the end of the day, things were better by not being involved. But that is only my opinion, and like all things, everyone has one.Consultation with a PR firm is a good idea, and the outcome of that shared to ODV would be requested. Mark, HDXOn Sat, Jun 6, 2020 at 3:04 PM Roderick, Rick, K5UR via arrl-odv <arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org> wrote: Hi all: Yesterday evening the Officers received the email below. The Officers have been discussing what to do and decided on the following: 1. Forward a copy to ODV to assure that you knew about it. Perhaps some of you have received a similar email already or will receive one in the future. 2. Inform the Board that Barry will engage a PR firm to review and advise on: A.) draft response to the individual B.) whether we should issue a policy statement to ARRL members and if so what it should say 3. Share the suggestions from the PR firm with the Board so that the Board can decide on any policy action to be taken. 73, Rick - K5UR -----Original Message----- From: Christopher Broholm <kc3mgf@gmail.com> To: K5UR@arrl.org Cc: k1twf@arrl.org; W6RGG@arrl.org; w6rod@arrl.org; n1vxy@arrl.org; K7GM@arrl.org <K7GM@ARRL.ORG>; dmiddleton@arrl.org Sent: Fri, Jun 5, 2020 7:16 pm Subject: ATTN: ARRL against racial injustice Dear Mr. Roderick and officers of the ARRL, As you’re aware if you’ve watched the news or participate in social media, there has been a large and appropriate response to the murder of Black Americans by police officers taking place over the last several days. Our society is being traumatized by the systemic, institutional racism that pervades the structures that govern and rule our citizenry. Our Black neighbors live in fear every second of every day that their name will be the next that needs to be remembered. That their son or daughter may be the next Black citizen murdered in the streets by people who swore to protect them. As leaders, you have a responsibility to Black ARRL members and hams to openly and loudly affirm that they are safe from racism and discrimination within the ARRL. That you vehemently oppose and condemn the actions of the police officer in Minneapolis who murdered George Floyd in cold blood, along with the hundreds who went before him. I am writing to you as a fellow ham and member of your organization to request that the ARRL take a stance against racial injustice. Events over the last few weeks have caused me to reflect on what organizations I choose to support and what organizations represent me. It has also made me reflect on the hobby as a whole being a predominately white, male hobby. It is imperative, no, necessary that organizations such as yourselves take a firm stance against racism, against police brutality, against the needless killing of black people in America and to take corrective actions to address these systemic issues. Like you, I care deeply for the future of amateur radio and for the ARRL and as such its representative body should be future-facing. I care about, and indeed you should too care about what the ARRL represents. Does it represent the status quo and everything that has brought us to this moment or does it represent the future? We should be working towards a future that empowers black voices and allows them to be heard on the air and off the air. Ask yourself how, for example, a black person interested in amateur radio would feel if the ARRL takes no stance and by its silence tacitly supports the continued genocide of black americans? Saying nothing makes you complicit in the structures of white supremacy, and alienates potential black hams from joining your organization. I want to see amateur radio thrive, and I want it to be more representative of this diverse and beautiful country. That will not happen unless the problem is recognized and addressed by everyone. I implore you to take the following actions towards being inclusive and anti racist: Release a statement condemning recent instances of police brutality against Black Americans, and affirm your stance as being an organization that aims to be inclusive of all races. Develop a plan to address systemic racism within ARRL’s organizational structure. Ignoring this is not an option. We do a deep disservice to ourselves by turning a blind eye and pretending that these events aren’t impacting all of us, particularly our Black members and their families.I am asking this of you because I care deeply about amateur radio. We have a responsibility and we must stay true to our values. If the ARRL is truly a great organization to be a part of, we must continue to prove it. Our members deserve this, our culture deserves this. To this end, there are many anti racism educators that make a living by doing this work and it would behoove the ARRL to pay for them to come in and teach on what is happening. I have recommendations and references for these educators. As a member, I’m ready to help craft a response. Please feel free to contact me. I look forward to being part of the response and reminding ARRL members and hams everywhere that we care about their safety, wellbeing, and right to exist and live free from racism and injustice. Sincerely, Christopher Broholm KC3MGF _______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
Mark, I have to disagree big time here. My first experience with the ARRL was one of exclusion - exclusion from an ARRL VE session because I did not have a US social security number. The people I contacted at ARRL up to the President didn’t seem to care nor know what to do. The ARRL and ham radio cannot answer truthfully that it is committed to being welcoming to all. Right now it looks and feels like an old white boys club, because largely it is. Ria N2RJ On Sat, Jun 6, 2020 at 8:56 PM Mark J Tharp <kb7hdx@gmail.com> wrote:
Personally, I think this is an attempt to gain support for a cause that does not involve the ARRL. We have no dog in this fight. I do not think we should be involved in a response for a racial situation. We have never, nor shall we ever be, racially skewed, and to put out a message that we support, or do not support, a specific incident puts us in another class of organization. One geared towards a political front.
In the 31 years I have been a ham, I have NEVER seen a racial twist on anything the league or any ham organization has been involved with.
I would say we are considering your request, and will take it under advisement.
As an SM for 15 years I was asked many, many times to support, or not support various things, and you have to put the good of the whole in your mind before making a stand on things. I know I made enemies over the years not supporting certain things, and that's OK. At the end of the day, things were better by not being involved.
But that is only my opinion, and like all things, everyone has one.
Consultation with a PR firm is a good idea, and the outcome of that shared to ODV would be requested.
Mark, HDX
On Sat, Jun 6, 2020 at 3:04 PM Roderick, Rick, K5UR via arrl-odv < arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org> wrote:
Hi all:
Yesterday evening the Officers received the email below. The Officers have been discussing what to do and decided on the following:
1. Forward a copy to ODV to assure that you knew about it. Perhaps some of you have received a similar email already or will receive one in the future.
2. Inform the Board that Barry will engage a PR firm to review and advise on:
A.) draft response to the individual
B.) whether we should issue a policy statement to ARRL members and if so what it should say
3. Share the suggestions from the PR firm with the Board so that the Board can decide on any policy action to be taken.
73, Rick - K5UR
-----Original Message----- From: Christopher Broholm <kc3mgf@gmail.com> To: K5UR@arrl.org Cc: k1twf@arrl.org; W6RGG@arrl.org; w6rod@arrl.org; n1vxy@arrl.org; K7GM@arrl.org <K7GM@ARRL.ORG>; dmiddleton@arrl.org Sent: Fri, Jun 5, 2020 7:16 pm Subject: ATTN: ARRL against racial injustice
Dear Mr. Roderick and officers of the ARRL, As you’re aware if you’ve watched the news or participate in social media, there has been a large and appropriate response to the murder of Black Americans by police officers taking place over the last several days. Our society is being traumatized by the systemic, institutional racism that pervades the structures that govern and rule our citizenry. Our Black neighbors live in fear every second of every day that their name will be the next that needs to be remembered. That their son or daughter may be the next Black citizen murdered in the streets by people who swore to protect them. As leaders, you have a responsibility to Black ARRL members and hams to openly and loudly affirm that they are safe from racism and discrimination within the ARRL. That you vehemently oppose and condemn the actions of the police officer in Minneapolis who murdered George Floyd in cold blood, along with the hundreds who went before him. I am writing to you as a fellow ham and member of your organization to request that the ARRL take a stance against racial injustice. Events over the last few weeks have caused me to reflect on what organizations I choose to support and what organizations represent me. It has also made me reflect on the hobby as a whole being a predominately white, male hobby. It is imperative, no, necessary that organizations such as yourselves take a firm stance against racism, against police brutality, against the needless killing of black people in America and to take corrective actions to address these systemic issues.
Like you, I care deeply for the future of amateur radio and for the ARRL and as such its representative body should be future-facing. I care about, and indeed you should too care about what the ARRL represents. Does it represent the status quo and everything that has brought us to this moment or does it represent the future? We should be working towards a future that empowers black voices and allows them to be heard on the air and off the air. Ask yourself how, for example, a black person interested in amateur radio would feel if the ARRL takes no stance and by its silence tacitly supports the continued genocide of black americans? Saying nothing makes you complicit in the structures of white supremacy, and alienates potential black hams from joining your organization. I want to see amateur radio thrive, and I want it to be more representative of this diverse and beautiful country. That will not happen unless the problem is recognized and addressed by everyone. I implore you to take the following actions towards being inclusive and anti racist:
1. Release a statement condemning recent instances of police brutality against Black Americans, and affirm your stance as being an organization that aims to be inclusive of all races. 2. Develop a plan to address systemic racism within ARRL’s organizational structure.
Ignoring this is not an option. We do a deep disservice to ourselves by turning a blind eye and pretending that these events aren’t impacting all of us, particularly our Black members and their families.I am asking this of you because I care deeply about amateur radio. We have a responsibility and we must stay true to our values. If the ARRL is truly a great organization to be a part of, we must continue to prove it. Our members deserve this, our culture deserves this. To this end, there are many anti racism educators that make a living by doing this work and it would behoove the ARRL to pay for them to come in and teach on what is happening. I have recommendations and references for these educators. As a member, I’m ready to help craft a response. Please feel free to contact me. I look forward to being part of the response and reminding ARRL members and hams everywhere that we care about their safety, wellbeing, and right to exist and live free from racism and injustice. Sincerely, Christopher Broholm KC3MGF
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
Your experience with a local VE team can not be expected to encompass the political and or racial face of the league. I would say the group you tried to test with had an issue, and not knowing all the details, I don't know why the ARRL president would have needed to be involved. The VEC should have been able to handle the issue, and again, I don't know what that would have to do with this current situation. Not saying I don't have sympathy for the problem you experienced, but I think these are two completely different issues. Who did you contact at HQ in the VEC, and who was President at the time? Perhaps some are still in the loop, and could answer the question about your issue. "Right now it looks and feels like an old white boys club, because largely it is." What can the ARRL do to change this in your view when we are subject to those that join? We reach out to all amateurs regardless of race, gender etc. and yet are subject to criticism due to the average gender, race, and any other diferenting specifics of those who join? I think we, the ARRL, ARE very welcoming to all. In my opinion. Mark, HDX On Sat, Jun 6, 2020 at 6:21 PM rjairam@gmail.com <rjairam@gmail.com> wrote:
Mark,
I have to disagree big time here.
My first experience with the ARRL was one of exclusion - exclusion from an ARRL VE session because I did not have a US social security number. The people I contacted at ARRL up to the President didn’t seem to care nor know what to do.
The ARRL and ham radio cannot answer truthfully that it is committed to being welcoming to all. Right now it looks and feels like an old white boys club, because largely it is.
Ria N2RJ
On Sat, Jun 6, 2020 at 8:56 PM Mark J Tharp <kb7hdx@gmail.com> wrote:
Personally, I think this is an attempt to gain support for a cause that does not involve the ARRL. We have no dog in this fight. I do not think we should be involved in a response for a racial situation. We have never, nor shall we ever be, racially skewed, and to put out a message that we support, or do not support, a specific incident puts us in another class of organization. One geared towards a political front.
In the 31 years I have been a ham, I have NEVER seen a racial twist on anything the league or any ham organization has been involved with.
I would say we are considering your request, and will take it under advisement.
As an SM for 15 years I was asked many, many times to support, or not support various things, and you have to put the good of the whole in your mind before making a stand on things. I know I made enemies over the years not supporting certain things, and that's OK. At the end of the day, things were better by not being involved.
But that is only my opinion, and like all things, everyone has one.
Consultation with a PR firm is a good idea, and the outcome of that shared to ODV would be requested.
Mark, HDX
On Sat, Jun 6, 2020 at 3:04 PM Roderick, Rick, K5UR via arrl-odv < arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org> wrote:
Hi all:
Yesterday evening the Officers received the email below. The Officers have been discussing what to do and decided on the following:
1. Forward a copy to ODV to assure that you knew about it. Perhaps some of you have received a similar email already or will receive one in the future.
2. Inform the Board that Barry will engage a PR firm to review and advise on:
A.) draft response to the individual
B.) whether we should issue a policy statement to ARRL members and if so what it should say
3. Share the suggestions from the PR firm with the Board so that the Board can decide on any policy action to be taken.
73, Rick - K5UR
-----Original Message----- From: Christopher Broholm <kc3mgf@gmail.com> To: K5UR@arrl.org Cc: k1twf@arrl.org; W6RGG@arrl.org; w6rod@arrl.org; n1vxy@arrl.org; K7GM@arrl.org <K7GM@ARRL.ORG>; dmiddleton@arrl.org Sent: Fri, Jun 5, 2020 7:16 pm Subject: ATTN: ARRL against racial injustice
Dear Mr. Roderick and officers of the ARRL, As you’re aware if you’ve watched the news or participate in social media, there has been a large and appropriate response to the murder of Black Americans by police officers taking place over the last several days. Our society is being traumatized by the systemic, institutional racism that pervades the structures that govern and rule our citizenry. Our Black neighbors live in fear every second of every day that their name will be the next that needs to be remembered. That their son or daughter may be the next Black citizen murdered in the streets by people who swore to protect them. As leaders, you have a responsibility to Black ARRL members and hams to openly and loudly affirm that they are safe from racism and discrimination within the ARRL. That you vehemently oppose and condemn the actions of the police officer in Minneapolis who murdered George Floyd in cold blood, along with the hundreds who went before him. I am writing to you as a fellow ham and member of your organization to request that the ARRL take a stance against racial injustice. Events over the last few weeks have caused me to reflect on what organizations I choose to support and what organizations represent me. It has also made me reflect on the hobby as a whole being a predominately white, male hobby. It is imperative, no, necessary that organizations such as yourselves take a firm stance against racism, against police brutality, against the needless killing of black people in America and to take corrective actions to address these systemic issues.
Like you, I care deeply for the future of amateur radio and for the ARRL and as such its representative body should be future-facing. I care about, and indeed you should too care about what the ARRL represents. Does it represent the status quo and everything that has brought us to this moment or does it represent the future? We should be working towards a future that empowers black voices and allows them to be heard on the air and off the air. Ask yourself how, for example, a black person interested in amateur radio would feel if the ARRL takes no stance and by its silence tacitly supports the continued genocide of black americans? Saying nothing makes you complicit in the structures of white supremacy, and alienates potential black hams from joining your organization. I want to see amateur radio thrive, and I want it to be more representative of this diverse and beautiful country. That will not happen unless the problem is recognized and addressed by everyone. I implore you to take the following actions towards being inclusive and anti racist:
1. Release a statement condemning recent instances of police brutality against Black Americans, and affirm your stance as being an organization that aims to be inclusive of all races. 2. Develop a plan to address systemic racism within ARRL’s organizational structure.
Ignoring this is not an option. We do a deep disservice to ourselves by turning a blind eye and pretending that these events aren’t impacting all of us, particularly our Black members and their families.I am asking this of you because I care deeply about amateur radio. We have a responsibility and we must stay true to our values. If the ARRL is truly a great organization to be a part of, we must continue to prove it. Our members deserve this, our culture deserves this. To this end, there are many anti racism educators that make a living by doing this work and it would behoove the ARRL to pay for them to come in and teach on what is happening. I have recommendations and references for these educators. As a member, I’m ready to help craft a response. Please feel free to contact me. I look forward to being part of the response and reminding ARRL members and hams everywhere that we care about their safety, wellbeing, and right to exist and live free from racism and injustice. Sincerely, Christopher Broholm KC3MGF
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
"What can the ARRL do to change this in your view when we are subject to those that join?" The Mintz and Hoke presentation showing only white men was (and is) also an issue. Amateur radio is not 100% white, so we can't even say that the personas were representative of ARRL membership. Complaints I got about a black woman on the cover of On The Air magazine is another example. These are two, of many more. We need to be leading, not following the demographic trend. That's how real change is made. It's not even just about race. It's about breaking away today's demographic of ham radio. Young people don't want to have anything to do with the ARRL, even those who somehow managed to get interested in amateur radio. Go to reddit r/amateurradio and see why. Young people need only one negative experience to turn them away. Thankfully we have a few who take positive steps to uplift and support youth programs. But it isn't enough, and it stems from a deep misunderstanding of the demographics. The same is true with everything else. Ria N2RJ On Sat, 6 Jun 2020 at 23:45, Mark J Tharp <kb7hdx@gmail.com> wrote:
Your experience with a local VE team can not be expected to encompass the political and or racial face of the league. I would say the group you tried to test with had an issue, and not knowing all the details, I don't know why the ARRL president would have needed to be involved. The VEC should have been able to handle the issue, and again, I don't know what that would have to do with this current situation.
Not saying I don't have sympathy for the problem you experienced, but I think these are two completely different issues.
Who did you contact at HQ in the VEC, and who was President at the time? Perhaps some are still in the loop, and could answer the question about your issue.
"Right now it looks and feels like an old white boys club, because largely it is."
What can the ARRL do to change this in your view when we are subject to those that join? We reach out to all amateurs regardless of race, gender etc. and yet are subject to criticism due to the average gender, race, and any other diferenting specifics of those who join?
I think we, the ARRL, ARE very welcoming to all. In my opinion.
Mark, HDX
On Sat, Jun 6, 2020 at 6:21 PM rjairam@gmail.com <rjairam@gmail.com> wrote:
Mark,
I have to disagree big time here.
My first experience with the ARRL was one of exclusion - exclusion from an ARRL VE session because I did not have a US social security number. The people I contacted at ARRL up to the President didn’t seem to care nor know what to do.
The ARRL and ham radio cannot answer truthfully that it is committed to being welcoming to all. Right now it looks and feels like an old white boys club, because largely it is.
Ria N2RJ
On Sat, Jun 6, 2020 at 8:56 PM Mark J Tharp <kb7hdx@gmail.com> wrote:
Personally, I think this is an attempt to gain support for a cause that does not involve the ARRL. We have no dog in this fight. I do not think we should be involved in a response for a racial situation. We have never, nor shall we ever be, racially skewed, and to put out a message that we support, or do not support, a specific incident puts us in another class of organization. One geared towards a political front.
In the 31 years I have been a ham, I have NEVER seen a racial twist on anything the league or any ham organization has been involved with.
I would say we are considering your request, and will take it under advisement.
As an SM for 15 years I was asked many, many times to support, or not support various things, and you have to put the good of the whole in your mind before making a stand on things. I know I made enemies over the years not supporting certain things, and that's OK. At the end of the day, things were better by not being involved.
But that is only my opinion, and like all things, everyone has one.
Consultation with a PR firm is a good idea, and the outcome of that shared to ODV would be requested.
Mark, HDX
On Sat, Jun 6, 2020 at 3:04 PM Roderick, Rick, K5UR via arrl-odv <arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org> wrote:
Hi all:
Yesterday evening the Officers received the email below. The Officers have been discussing what to do and decided on the following:
1. Forward a copy to ODV to assure that you knew about it. Perhaps some of you have received a similar email already or will receive one in the future.
2. Inform the Board that Barry will engage a PR firm to review and advise on:
A.) draft response to the individual
B.) whether we should issue a policy statement to ARRL members and if so what it should say
3. Share the suggestions from the PR firm with the Board so that the Board can decide on any policy action to be taken.
73, Rick - K5UR
-----Original Message----- From: Christopher Broholm <kc3mgf@gmail.com> To: K5UR@arrl.org Cc: k1twf@arrl.org; W6RGG@arrl.org; w6rod@arrl.org; n1vxy@arrl.org; K7GM@arrl.org <K7GM@ARRL.ORG>; dmiddleton@arrl.org Sent: Fri, Jun 5, 2020 7:16 pm Subject: ATTN: ARRL against racial injustice
Dear Mr. Roderick and officers of the ARRL, As you’re aware if you’ve watched the news or participate in social media, there has been a large and appropriate response to the murder of Black Americans by police officers taking place over the last several days. Our society is being traumatized by the systemic, institutional racism that pervades the structures that govern and rule our citizenry. Our Black neighbors live in fear every second of every day that their name will be the next that needs to be remembered. That their son or daughter may be the next Black citizen murdered in the streets by people who swore to protect them. As leaders, you have a responsibility to Black ARRL members and hams to openly and loudly affirm that they are safe from racism and discrimination within the ARRL. That you vehemently oppose and condemn the actions of the police officer in Minneapolis who murdered George Floyd in cold blood, along with the hundreds who went before him. I am writing to you as a fellow ham and member of your organization to request that the ARRL take a stance against racial injustice. Events over the last few weeks have caused me to reflect on what organizations I choose to support and what organizations represent me. It has also made me reflect on the hobby as a whole being a predominately white, male hobby. It is imperative, no, necessary that organizations such as yourselves take a firm stance against racism, against police brutality, against the needless killing of black people in America and to take corrective actions to address these systemic issues.
Like you, I care deeply for the future of amateur radio and for the ARRL and as such its representative body should be future-facing. I care about, and indeed you should too care about what the ARRL represents. Does it represent the status quo and everything that has brought us to this moment or does it represent the future? We should be working towards a future that empowers black voices and allows them to be heard on the air and off the air. Ask yourself how, for example, a black person interested in amateur radio would feel if the ARRL takes no stance and by its silence tacitly supports the continued genocide of black americans? Saying nothing makes you complicit in the structures of white supremacy, and alienates potential black hams from joining your organization. I want to see amateur radio thrive, and I want it to be more representative of this diverse and beautiful country. That will not happen unless the problem is recognized and addressed by everyone. I implore you to take the following actions towards being inclusive and anti racist:
Release a statement condemning recent instances of police brutality against Black Americans, and affirm your stance as being an organization that aims to be inclusive of all races. Develop a plan to address systemic racism within ARRL’s organizational structure.
Ignoring this is not an option. We do a deep disservice to ourselves by turning a blind eye and pretending that these events aren’t impacting all of us, particularly our Black members and their families.I am asking this of you because I care deeply about amateur radio. We have a responsibility and we must stay true to our values. If the ARRL is truly a great organization to be a part of, we must continue to prove it. Our members deserve this, our culture deserves this. To this end, there are many anti racism educators that make a living by doing this work and it would behoove the ARRL to pay for them to come in and teach on what is happening. I have recommendations and references for these educators. As a member, I’m ready to help craft a response. Please feel free to contact me. I look forward to being part of the response and reminding ARRL members and hams everywhere that we care about their safety, wellbeing, and right to exist and live free from racism and injustice. Sincerely, Christopher Broholm KC3MGF
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
Well put, Ria. We are part of an organization that is, by essence, established to promote communication and positive interaction among people. Young people, especially, are interested in the same thing ... hence their intense dedication to social media. Yet amateur radio isn't garnering the interest of today's youth. Part of the problem is their perception of what an amateur radio operator is. Go to a club meeting virtually anywhere and the group is made up of older white males. All of us recognize that problem. We are seeking relevance to a broad population. Taking a stand that is in line with a majority of young people would, to my mind, help us get there. And such an action would match that taken by many non-profits -- my email box if full of such declarations. Art K0AIZ On 6/6/2020 11:01 PM, rjairam@gmail.com wrote:
"What can the ARRL do to change this in your view when we are subject to those that join?"
The Mintz and Hoke presentation showing only white men was (and is) also an issue. Amateur radio is not 100% white, so we can't even say that the personas were representative of ARRL membership.
Complaints I got about a black woman on the cover of On The Air magazine is another example.
These are two, of many more.
We need to be leading, not following the demographic trend. That's how real change is made.
It's not even just about race. It's about breaking away today's demographic of ham radio. Young people don't want to have anything to do with the ARRL, even those who somehow managed to get interested in amateur radio. Go to reddit r/amateurradio and see why. Young people need only one negative experience to turn them away. Thankfully we have a few who take positive steps to uplift and support youth programs. But it isn't enough, and it stems from a deep misunderstanding of the demographics. The same is true with everything else.
Ria N2RJ
On Sat, 6 Jun 2020 at 23:45, Mark J Tharp <kb7hdx@gmail.com> wrote:
Your experience with a local VE team can not be expected to encompass the political and or racial face of the league. I would say the group you tried to test with had an issue, and not knowing all the details, I don't know why the ARRL president would have needed to be involved. The VEC should have been able to handle the issue, and again, I don't know what that would have to do with this current situation.
Not saying I don't have sympathy for the problem you experienced, but I think these are two completely different issues.
Who did you contact at HQ in the VEC, and who was President at the time? Perhaps some are still in the loop, and could answer the question about your issue.
"Right now it looks and feels like an old white boys club, because largely it is."
What can the ARRL do to change this in your view when we are subject to those that join? We reach out to all amateurs regardless of race, gender etc. and yet are subject to criticism due to the average gender, race, and any other diferenting specifics of those who join?
I think we, the ARRL, ARE very welcoming to all. In my opinion.
Mark, HDX
On Sat, Jun 6, 2020 at 6:21 PM rjairam@gmail.com <rjairam@gmail.com> wrote:
Mark,
I have to disagree big time here.
My first experience with the ARRL was one of exclusion - exclusion from an ARRL VE session because I did not have a US social security number. The people I contacted at ARRL up to the President didn’t seem to care nor know what to do.
The ARRL and ham radio cannot answer truthfully that it is committed to being welcoming to all. Right now it looks and feels like an old white boys club, because largely it is.
Ria N2RJ
On Sat, Jun 6, 2020 at 8:56 PM Mark J Tharp <kb7hdx@gmail.com> wrote:
Personally, I think this is an attempt to gain support for a cause that does not involve the ARRL. We have no dog in this fight. I do not think we should be involved in a response for a racial situation. We have never, nor shall we ever be, racially skewed, and to put out a message that we support, or do not support, a specific incident puts us in another class of organization. One geared towards a political front.
In the 31 years I have been a ham, I have NEVER seen a racial twist on anything the league or any ham organization has been involved with.
I would say we are considering your request, and will take it under advisement.
As an SM for 15 years I was asked many, many times to support, or not support various things, and you have to put the good of the whole in your mind before making a stand on things. I know I made enemies over the years not supporting certain things, and that's OK. At the end of the day, things were better by not being involved.
But that is only my opinion, and like all things, everyone has one.
Consultation with a PR firm is a good idea, and the outcome of that shared to ODV would be requested.
Mark, HDX
On Sat, Jun 6, 2020 at 3:04 PM Roderick, Rick, K5UR via arrl-odv <arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org> wrote:
Hi all:
Yesterday evening the Officers received the email below. The Officers have been discussing what to do and decided on the following:
1. Forward a copy to ODV to assure that you knew about it. Perhaps some of you have received a similar email already or will receive one in the future.
2. Inform the Board that Barry will engage a PR firm to review and advise on:
A.) draft response to the individual
B.) whether we should issue a policy statement to ARRL members and if so what it should say
3. Share the suggestions from the PR firm with the Board so that the Board can decide on any policy action to be taken.
73, Rick - K5UR
-----Original Message----- From: Christopher Broholm <kc3mgf@gmail.com> To: K5UR@arrl.org Cc: k1twf@arrl.org; W6RGG@arrl.org; w6rod@arrl.org; n1vxy@arrl.org; K7GM@arrl.org <K7GM@ARRL.ORG>; dmiddleton@arrl.org Sent: Fri, Jun 5, 2020 7:16 pm Subject: ATTN: ARRL against racial injustice
Dear Mr. Roderick and officers of the ARRL, As you’re aware if you’ve watched the news or participate in social media, there has been a large and appropriate response to the murder of Black Americans by police officers taking place over the last several days. Our society is being traumatized by the systemic, institutional racism that pervades the structures that govern and rule our citizenry. Our Black neighbors live in fear every second of every day that their name will be the next that needs to be remembered. That their son or daughter may be the next Black citizen murdered in the streets by people who swore to protect them. As leaders, you have a responsibility to Black ARRL members and hams to openly and loudly affirm that they are safe from racism and discrimination within the ARRL. That you vehemently oppose and condemn the actions of the police officer in Minneapolis who murdered George Floyd in cold blood, along with the hundreds who went before him. I am writing to you as a fellow ham and member of your organization to request that the ARRL take a stance against racial injustice. Events over the last few weeks have caused me to reflect on what organizations I choose to support and what organizations represent me. It has also made me reflect on the hobby as a whole being a predominately white, male hobby. It is imperative, no, necessary that organizations such as yourselves take a firm stance against racism, against police brutality, against the needless killing of black people in America and to take corrective actions to address these systemic issues.
Like you, I care deeply for the future of amateur radio and for the ARRL and as such its representative body should be future-facing. I care about, and indeed you should too care about what the ARRL represents. Does it represent the status quo and everything that has brought us to this moment or does it represent the future? We should be working towards a future that empowers black voices and allows them to be heard on the air and off the air. Ask yourself how, for example, a black person interested in amateur radio would feel if the ARRL takes no stance and by its silence tacitly supports the continued genocide of black americans? Saying nothing makes you complicit in the structures of white supremacy, and alienates potential black hams from joining your organization. I want to see amateur radio thrive, and I want it to be more representative of this diverse and beautiful country. That will not happen unless the problem is recognized and addressed by everyone. I implore you to take the following actions towards being inclusive and anti racist:
Release a statement condemning recent instances of police brutality against Black Americans, and affirm your stance as being an organization that aims to be inclusive of all races. Develop a plan to address systemic racism within ARRL’s organizational structure.
Ignoring this is not an option. We do a deep disservice to ourselves by turning a blind eye and pretending that these events aren’t impacting all of us, particularly our Black members and their families.I am asking this of you because I care deeply about amateur radio. We have a responsibility and we must stay true to our values. If the ARRL is truly a great organization to be a part of, we must continue to prove it. Our members deserve this, our culture deserves this. To this end, there are many anti racism educators that make a living by doing this work and it would behoove the ARRL to pay for them to come in and teach on what is happening. I have recommendations and references for these educators. As a member, I’m ready to help craft a response. Please feel free to contact me. I look forward to being part of the response and reminding ARRL members and hams everywhere that we care about their safety, wellbeing, and right to exist and live free from racism and injustice. Sincerely, Christopher Broholm KC3MGF
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
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Much to the consternation of some of my relatives, I’m not “100% white” either... If there even was such a thing. I believe the ARRL should have an anti-bias policy, well thought out and formulated. I know of at least one ARC that exists entirely because of bias in another club. Shameful. If anyone doesn’t think there’s a problem, that might be a problem! If you haven’t taken the Harvard Implicit Bias test, further your education by learning what your own biases are... https://implicit.harvard.edu/implicit/takeatest.html I support having a policy on bias and taking an active role in making Amateur Radio and the ARRL truly open to all. 73, Mickey N4MB On Sun, Jun 7, 2020 at 12:02 AM rjairam@gmail.com <rjairam@gmail.com> wrote:
"What can the ARRL do to change this in your view when we are subject to those that join?"
The Mintz and Hoke presentation showing only white men was (and is) also an issue. Amateur radio is not 100% white, so we can't even say that the personas were representative of ARRL membership.
Complaints I got about a black woman on the cover of On The Air magazine is another example.
These are two, of many more.
We need to be leading, not following the demographic trend. That's how real change is made.
It's not even just about race. It's about breaking away today's demographic of ham radio. Young people don't want to have anything to do with the ARRL, even those who somehow managed to get interested in amateur radio. Go to reddit r/amateurradio and see why. Young people need only one negative experience to turn them away. Thankfully we have a few who take positive steps to uplift and support youth programs. But it isn't enough, and it stems from a deep misunderstanding of the demographics. The same is true with everything else.
Ria N2RJ
On Sat, 6 Jun 2020 at 23:45, Mark J Tharp <kb7hdx@gmail.com> wrote:
Your experience with a local VE team can not be expected to encompass
the political and or racial face of the league. I would say the group you tried to test with had an issue, and not knowing all the details, I don't know why the ARRL president would have needed to be involved. The VEC should have been able to handle the issue, and again, I don't know what that would have to do with this current situation.
Not saying I don't have sympathy for the problem you experienced, but I
think these are two completely different issues.
Who did you contact at HQ in the VEC, and who was President at the time?
Perhaps some are still in the loop, and could answer the question about your issue.
"Right now it looks and feels like an old white boys club, because
largely it is."
What can the ARRL do to change this in your view when we are subject to
those that join?
We reach out to all amateurs regardless of race, gender etc. and yet are subject to criticism due to the average gender, race, and any other diferenting specifics of those who join?
I think we, the ARRL, ARE very welcoming to all. In my opinion.
Mark, HDX
On Sat, Jun 6, 2020 at 6:21 PM rjairam@gmail.com <rjairam@gmail.com> wrote:
Mark,
I have to disagree big time here.
My first experience with the ARRL was one of exclusion - exclusion from
an ARRL VE session because I did not have a US social security number. The people I contacted at ARRL up to the President didn’t seem to care nor know what to do.
The ARRL and ham radio cannot answer truthfully that it is committed to
being welcoming to all. Right now it looks and feels like an old white boys club, because largely it is.
Ria N2RJ
On Sat, Jun 6, 2020 at 8:56 PM Mark J Tharp <kb7hdx@gmail.com> wrote:
Personally, I think this is an attempt to gain support for a cause
that does not involve the ARRL.
We have no dog in this fight. I do not think we should be involved in a response for a racial situation. We have never, nor shall we ever be, racially skewed, and to put out a message that we support, or do not support, a specific incident puts us in another class of organization. One geared towards a political front.
In the 31 years I have been a ham, I have NEVER seen a racial twist on anything the league or any ham organization has been involved with.
I would say we are considering your request, and will take it under advisement.
As an SM for 15 years I was asked many, many times to support, or not support various things, and you have to put the good of the whole in your mind before making a stand on things. I know I made enemies over the years not supporting certain things, and that's OK. At the end of the day, things were better by not being involved.
But that is only my opinion, and like all things, everyone has one.
Consultation with a PR firm is a good idea, and the outcome of that shared to ODV would be requested.
Mark, HDX
On Sat, Jun 6, 2020 at 3:04 PM Roderick, Rick, K5UR via arrl-odv < arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org> wrote:
Hi all:
Yesterday evening the Officers received the email below. The Officers
have been discussing what to do and decided on the following:
1. Forward a copy to ODV to assure that you knew about it. Perhaps
some of you have received a similar email already or will receive one in the future.
2. Inform the Board that Barry will engage a PR firm to review and
advise on:
A.) draft response to the individual
B.) whether we should issue a policy statement to ARRL members and
if so what it should say
3. Share the suggestions from the PR firm with the Board so that the
Board can decide on any policy action to be taken.
73, Rick - K5UR
-----Original Message----- From: Christopher Broholm <kc3mgf@gmail.com> To: K5UR@arrl.org Cc: k1twf@arrl.org; W6RGG@arrl.org; w6rod@arrl.org; n1vxy@arrl.org;
K7GM@arrl.org <K7GM@ARRL.ORG>; dmiddleton@arrl.org
Sent: Fri, Jun 5, 2020 7:16 pm Subject: ATTN: ARRL against racial injustice
Dear Mr. Roderick and officers of the ARRL, As you’re aware if you’ve watched the news or participate in social media, there has been a large and appropriate response to the murder of Black Americans by police officers taking place over the last several days. Our society is being traumatized by the systemic, institutional racism that pervades the structures that govern and rule our citizenry. Our Black neighbors live in fear every second of every day that their name will be the next that needs to be remembered. That their son or daughter may be the next Black citizen murdered in the streets by people who swore to protect them. As leaders, you have a responsibility to Black ARRL members and hams to openly and loudly affirm that they are safe from racism and discrimination within the ARRL. That you vehemently oppose and condemn the actions of the police officer in Minneapolis who murdered George Floyd in cold blood, along with the hundreds who went before him. I am writing to you as a fellow ham and member of your organization to request that the ARRL take a stance against racial injustice. Events over the last few weeks have caused me to reflect on what organizations I choose to support and what organizations represent me. It has also made me reflect on the hobby as a whole being a predominately white, male hobby. It is imperative, no, necessary that organizations such as yourselves take a firm stance against racism, against police brutality, against the needless killing of black people in America and to take corrective actions to address these systemic issues.
Like you, I care deeply for the future of amateur radio and for the ARRL and as such its representative body should be future-facing. I care about, and indeed you should too care about what the ARRL represents. Does it represent the status quo and everything that has brought us to this moment or does it represent the future? We should be working towards a future that empowers black voices and allows them to be heard on the air and off the air. Ask yourself how, for example, a black person interested in amateur radio would feel if the ARRL takes no stance and by its silence tacitly supports the continued genocide of black americans? Saying nothing makes you complicit in the structures of white supremacy, and alienates potential black hams from joining your organization. I want to see amateur radio thrive, and I want it to be more representative of this diverse and beautiful country. That will not happen unless the problem is recognized and addressed by everyone. I implore you to take the following actions towards being inclusive and anti racist:
Release a statement condemning recent instances of police brutality against Black Americans, and affirm your stance as being an organization that aims to be inclusive of all races. Develop a plan to address systemic racism within ARRL’s organizational structure.
Ignoring this is not an option. We do a deep disservice to ourselves by turning a blind eye and pretending that these events aren’t impacting all of us, particularly our Black members and their families.I am asking this of you because I care deeply about amateur radio. We have a responsibility and we must stay true to our values. If the ARRL is truly a great organization to be a part of, we must continue to prove it. Our members deserve this, our culture deserves this. To this end, there are many anti racism educators that make a living by doing this work and it would behoove the ARRL to pay for them to come in and teach on what is happening. I have recommendations and references for these educators. As a member, I’m ready to help craft a response. Please feel free to contact me. I look forward to being part of the response and reminding ARRL members and hams everywhere that we care about their safety, wellbeing, and right to exist and live free from racism and injustice. Sincerely, Christopher Broholm KC3MGF
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
-- “Ends and beginnings—there are no such things. There are only middles.” Robert Frost
Count me with Art, Mickey, Bill, Ria, and others. Having a clear policy on this would be a very positive step, though policy by itself will not solve the huge diversity problem that we have. MikeK1TWF Mike Raisbeck k1twf@arrl.net -----Original Message----- From: Mickey Baker <fishflorida@gmail.com> To: rjairam@gmail.com <rjairam@gmail.com> Cc: arrl-odv@arrl.org <arrl-odv@arrl.org> Sent: Sun, Jun 7, 2020 1:00 am Subject: [arrl-odv:30404] Re: Confidential Much to the consternation of some of my relatives, I’m not “100% white” either... If there even was such a thing. I believe the ARRL should have an anti-bias policy, well thought out and formulated. I know of at least one ARC that exists entirely because of bias in another club. Shameful. If anyone doesn’t think there’s a problem, that might be a problem! If you haven’t taken the Harvard Implicit Bias test, further your education by learning what your own biases are... https://implicit.harvard.edu/implicit/takeatest.html I support having a policy on bias and taking an active role in making Amateur Radio and the ARRL truly open to all. 73, Mickey N4MB On Sun, Jun 7, 2020 at 12:02 AM rjairam@gmail.com <rjairam@gmail.com> wrote: "What can the ARRL do to change this in your view when we are subject to those that join?" The Mintz and Hoke presentation showing only white men was (and is) also an issue. Amateur radio is not 100% white, so we can't even say that the personas were representative of ARRL membership. Complaints I got about a black woman on the cover of On The Air magazine is another example. These are two, of many more. We need to be leading, not following the demographic trend. That's how real change is made. It's not even just about race. It's about breaking away today's demographic of ham radio. Young people don't want to have anything to do with the ARRL, even those who somehow managed to get interested in amateur radio. Go to reddit r/amateurradio and see why. Young people need only one negative experience to turn them away. Thankfully we have a few who take positive steps to uplift and support youth programs. But it isn't enough, and it stems from a deep misunderstanding of the demographics. The same is true with everything else. Ria N2RJ On Sat, 6 Jun 2020 at 23:45, Mark J Tharp <kb7hdx@gmail.com> wrote:
Your experience with a local VE team can not be expected to encompass the political and or racial face of the league. I would say the group you tried to test with had an issue, and not knowing all the details, I don't know why the ARRL president would have needed to be involved. The VEC should have been able to handle the issue, and again, I don't know what that would have to do with this current situation.
Not saying I don't have sympathy for the problem you experienced, but I think these are two completely different issues.
Who did you contact at HQ in the VEC, and who was President at the time? Perhaps some are still in the loop, and could answer the question about your issue.
"Right now it looks and feels like an old white boys club, because largely it is."
What can the ARRL do to change this in your view when we are subject to those that join? We reach out to all amateurs regardless of race, gender etc. and yet are subject to criticism due to the average gender, race, and any other diferenting specifics of those who join?
I think we, the ARRL, ARE very welcoming to all. In my opinion.
Mark, HDX
On Sat, Jun 6, 2020 at 6:21 PM rjairam@gmail.com <rjairam@gmail.com> wrote:
Mark,
I have to disagree big time here.
My first experience with the ARRL was one of exclusion - exclusion from an ARRL VE session because I did not have a US social security number. The people I contacted at ARRL up to the President didn’t seem to care nor know what to do.
The ARRL and ham radio cannot answer truthfully that it is committed to being welcoming to all. Right now it looks and feels like an old white boys club, because largely it is.
Ria N2RJ
On Sat, Jun 6, 2020 at 8:56 PM Mark J Tharp <kb7hdx@gmail.com> wrote:
Personally, I think this is an attempt to gain support for a cause that does not involve the ARRL. We have no dog in this fight. I do not think we should be involved in a response for a racial situation. We have never, nor shall we ever be, racially skewed, and to put out a message that we support, or do not support, a specific incident puts us in another class of organization. One geared towards a political front.
In the 31 years I have been a ham, I have NEVER seen a racial twist on anything the league or any ham organization has been involved with.
I would say we are considering your request, and will take it under advisement.
As an SM for 15 years I was asked many, many times to support, or not support various things, and you have to put the good of the whole in your mind before making a stand on things. I know I made enemies over the years not supporting certain things, and that's OK. At the end of the day, things were better by not being involved.
But that is only my opinion, and like all things, everyone has one.
Consultation with a PR firm is a good idea, and the outcome of that shared to ODV would be requested.
Mark, HDX
On Sat, Jun 6, 2020 at 3:04 PM Roderick, Rick, K5UR via arrl-odv <arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org> wrote:
Hi all:
Yesterday evening the Officers received the email below. The Officers have been discussing what to do and decided on the following:
1. Forward a copy to ODV to assure that you knew about it. Perhaps some of you have received a similar email already or will receive one in the future.
2. Inform the Board that Barry will engage a PR firm to review and advise on:
A.) draft response to the individual
B.) whether we should issue a policy statement to ARRL members and if so what it should say
3. Share the suggestions from the PR firm with the Board so that the Board can decide on any policy action to be taken.
73, Rick - K5UR
-----Original Message----- From: Christopher Broholm <kc3mgf@gmail.com> To: K5UR@arrl.org Cc: k1twf@arrl.org; W6RGG@arrl.org; w6rod@arrl.org; n1vxy@arrl.org; K7GM@arrl.org <K7GM@ARRL.ORG>; dmiddleton@arrl.org Sent: Fri, Jun 5, 2020 7:16 pm Subject: ATTN: ARRL against racial injustice
Dear Mr. Roderick and officers of the ARRL, As you’re aware if you’ve watched the news or participate in social media, there has been a large and appropriate response to the murder of Black Americans by police officers taking place over the last several days. Our society is being traumatized by the systemic, institutional racism that pervades the structures that govern and rule our citizenry. Our Black neighbors live in fear every second of every day that their name will be the next that needs to be remembered. That their son or daughter may be the next Black citizen murdered in the streets by people who swore to protect them. As leaders, you have a responsibility to Black ARRL members and hams to openly and loudly affirm that they are safe from racism and discrimination within the ARRL. That you vehemently oppose and condemn the actions of the police officer in Minneapolis who murdered George Floyd in cold blood, along with the hundreds who went before him. I am writing to you as a fellow ham and member of your organization to request that the ARRL take a stance against racial injustice. Events over the last few weeks have caused me to reflect on what organizations I choose to support and what organizations represent me. It has also made me reflect on the hobby as a whole being a predominately white, male hobby. It is imperative, no, necessary that organizations such as yourselves take a firm stance against racism, against police brutality, against the needless killing of black people in America and to take corrective actions to address these systemic issues.
Like you, I care deeply for the future of amateur radio and for the ARRL and as such its representative body should be future-facing. I care about, and indeed you should too care about what the ARRL represents. Does it represent the status quo and everything that has brought us to this moment or does it represent the future? We should be working towards a future that empowers black voices and allows them to be heard on the air and off the air. Ask yourself how, for example, a black person interested in amateur radio would feel if the ARRL takes no stance and by its silence tacitly supports the continued genocide of black americans? Saying nothing makes you complicit in the structures of white supremacy, and alienates potential black hams from joining your organization. I want to see amateur radio thrive, and I want it to be more representative of this diverse and beautiful country. That will not happen unless the problem is recognized and addressed by everyone. I implore you to take the following actions towards being inclusive and anti racist:
Release a statement condemning recent instances of police brutality against Black Americans, and affirm your stance as being an organization that aims to be inclusive of all races. Develop a plan to address systemic racism within ARRL’s organizational structure.
Ignoring this is not an option. We do a deep disservice to ourselves by turning a blind eye and pretending that these events aren’t impacting all of us, particularly our Black members and their families.I am asking this of you because I care deeply about amateur radio. We have a responsibility and we must stay true to our values. If the ARRL is truly a great organization to be a part of, we must continue to prove it. Our members deserve this, our culture deserves this. To this end, there are many anti racism educators that make a living by doing this work and it would behoove the ARRL to pay for them to come in and teach on what is happening. I have recommendations and references for these educators. As a member, I’m ready to help craft a response. Please feel free to contact me. I look forward to being part of the response and reminding ARRL members and hams everywhere that we care about their safety, wellbeing, and right to exist and live free from racism and injustice. Sincerely, Christopher Broholm KC3MGF
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv -- “Ends and beginnings—there are no such things. There are only middles.” Robert Frost_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
I'll throw in my rambling two watts for the good of the order: Where this belongs is in front and center within the ARRL Strategic Plan, which contains the company's core Mission and Vision statements. Here's a quote from the current ARRL Strategic Plan: Diversity and Inclusiveness– Amateur Radio is enriched by and enjoyed by individuals from all traditions, heritages, backgrounds, and experiences. Our association will reflect the diverse composition of our community including members, volunteers, and employees. Think about what it actually says for a second, then read on........ OK, we've said some words, that put together sound like a worthwhile vision. The problem here is the same as the rest of the current ARRL Strategic Plan: There are no tactical plans or metrics as a follow-on for the above statement, which makes this really just "pretty wallpaper." How are we as an organization going to achieve this vision, and how will we measure our success? If this sounds like a broken record, it's because I said exactly the same thing last January in the Board meeting while discussing the "ARRL Strategic Plan 2.0" motion. I think we have a lot of work ahead of us both as a Board, and as an organization. I would hope and expect the elite CEO search committee is using this opportunity to ensure all the final candidates presented to the rest of the Board are both forward and strategic thinkers in this regard, and can actually move the ARRL beyond pretty wallpaper and words. IMHO, what we CANNOT do is get caught up in the political side of current events. The ARRL needs to remain apolitical and centrist. Maybe Barry or Diane can comment on this, but it's interesting to note that I looked on the ARRL website this morning and did not quickly find anything there about the ARRL's policy on anti-discriminatory hiring practices. Maybe it's buried somewhere, but it seems to me that our "anti-discrimination policy" on hiring should be the first thing potential employees see when they log into the ARRL employment opportunities page. Such policies are pretty much mandatory for companies bidding on government contracts, and I'd be shocked if we actually didn't have one on the website. Did I miss something? (Wouldn't be the first time....) :-) 73; Mike W7VO
On June 6, 2020 at 5:55 PM Mark J Tharp <kb7hdx@gmail.com> wrote:
Personally, I think this is an attempt to gain support for a cause that does not involve the ARRL. We have no dog in this fight. I do not think we should be involved in a response for a racial situation. We have never, nor shall we ever be, racially skewed, and to put out a message that we support, or do not support, a specific incident puts us in another class of organization. One geared towards a political front.
In the 31 years I have been a ham, I have NEVER seen a racial twist on anything the league or any ham organization has been involved with.
I would say we are considering your request, and will take it under advisement.
As an SM for 15 years I was asked many, many times to support, or not support various things, and you have to put the good of the whole in your mind before making a stand on things. I know I made enemies over the years not supporting certain things, and that's OK. At the end of the day, things were better by not being involved.
But that is only my opinion, and like all things, everyone has one.
Consultation with a PR firm is a good idea, and the outcome of that shared to ODV would be requested.
Mark, HDX
On Sat, Jun 6, 2020 at 3:04 PM Roderick, Rick, K5UR via arrl-odv < arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org mailto:arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org > wrote:
> > Hi all:
Yesterday evening the Officers received the email below. The Officers have been discussing what to do and decided on the following:
1. Forward a copy to ODV to assure that you knew about it. Perhaps some of you have received a similar email already or will receive one in the future.
2. Inform the Board that Barry will engage a PR firm to review and advise on:
A.) draft response to the individual
B.) whether we should issue a policy statement to ARRL members and if so what it should say
3. Share the suggestions from the PR firm with the Board so that the Board can decide on any policy action to be taken.
73, Rick - K5UR
-----Original Message----- From: Christopher Broholm < kc3mgf@gmail.com mailto:kc3mgf@gmail.com > To: K5UR@arrl.org mailto:K5UR@arrl.org Cc: k1twf@arrl.org mailto:k1twf@arrl.org ; W6RGG@arrl.org mailto:W6RGG@arrl.org ; w6rod@arrl.org mailto:w6rod@arrl.org ; n1vxy@arrl.org mailto:n1vxy@arrl.org ; K7GM@arrl.org mailto:K7GM@arrl.org < K7GM@ARRL.ORG mailto:K7GM@ARRL.ORG >; dmiddleton@arrl.org mailto:dmiddleton@arrl.org Sent: Fri, Jun 5, 2020 7:16 pm Subject: ATTN: ARRL against racial injustice
Dear Mr. Roderick and officers of the ARRL,
As you’re aware if you’ve watched the news or participate in social media, there has been a large and appropriate response to the murder of Black Americans by police officers taking place over the last several days. Our society is being traumatized by the systemic, institutional racism that pervades the structures that govern and rule our citizenry. Our Black neighbors live in fear every second of every day that their name will be the next that needs to be remembered. That their son or daughter may be the next Black citizen murdered in the streets by people who swore to protect them.
As leaders, you have a responsibility to Black ARRL members and hams to openly and loudly affirm that they are safe from racism and discrimination within the ARRL. That you vehemently oppose and condemn the actions of the police officer in Minneapolis who murdered George Floyd in cold blood, along with the hundreds who went before him.
I am writing to you as a fellow ham and member of your organization to request that the ARRL take a stance against racial injustice. Events over the last few weeks have caused me to reflect on what organizations I choose to support and what organizations represent me. It has also made me reflect on the hobby as a whole being a predominately white, male hobby. It is imperative, no, necessary that organizations such as yourselves take a firm stance against racism, against police brutality, against the needless killing of black people in America and to take corrective actions to address these systemic issues.
Like you, I care deeply for the future of amateur radio and for the ARRL and as such its representative body should be future-facing. I care about, and indeed you should too care about what the ARRL represents. Does it represent the status quo and everything that has brought us to this moment or does it represent the future? We should be working towards a future that empowers black voices and allows them to be heard on the air and off the air. Ask yourself how, for example, a black person interested in amateur radio would feel if the ARRL takes no stance and by its silence tacitly supports the continued genocide of black americans? Saying nothing makes you complicit in the structures of white supremacy, and alienates potential black hams from joining your organization. I want to see amateur radio thrive, and I want it to be more representative of this diverse and beautiful country. That will not happen unless the problem is recognized and addressed by everyone. I implore you to take the following actions towards being inclusive and anti racist:
1. Release a statement condemning recent instances of police brutality against Black Americans, and affirm your stance as being an organization that aims to be inclusive of all races. 2. Develop a plan to address systemic racism within ARRL’s organizational structure.
Ignoring this is not an option. We do a deep disservice to ourselves by turning a blind eye and pretending that these events aren’t impacting all of us, particularly our Black members and their families.I am asking this of you because I care deeply about amateur radio. We have a responsibility and we must stay true to our values. If the ARRL is truly a great organization to be a part of, we must continue to prove it. Our members deserve this, our culture deserves this. To this end, there are many anti racism educators that make a living by doing this work and it would behoove the ARRL to pay for them to come in and teach on what is happening. I have recommendations and references for these educators.
As a member, I’m ready to help craft a response. Please feel free to contact me. I look forward to being part of the response and reminding ARRL members and hams everywhere that we care about their safety, wellbeing, and right to exist and live free from racism and injustice.
Sincerely, Christopher Broholm KC3MGF
_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org mailto:arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
> _______________________________________________
arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
Mike: While it might not be worded in the way everyone would prefer, the Employment Opportunities page does state that the “ARRL is an equal opportunity employer” at the top of the page before the listings of the specific employment openings. This broad statement is in keeping with state and Federal employment laws. 73, Barry, N1VXY From: arrl-odv <arrl-odv-bounces@reflector.arrl.org> On Behalf Of Michael Ritz Sent: Sunday, June 7, 2020 3:13 PM To: arrl-odv <arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org> Subject: [arrl-odv:30406] Re: Confidential I'll throw in my rambling two watts for the good of the order: Where this belongs is in front and center within the ARRL Strategic Plan, which contains the company's core Mission and Vision statements. Here's a quote from the current ARRL Strategic Plan: Diversity and Inclusiveness– Amateur Radio is enriched by and enjoyed by individuals from all traditions, heritages, backgrounds, and experiences. Our association will reflect the diverse composition of our community including members, volunteers, and employees. Think about what it actually says for a second, then read on........ OK, we've said some words, that put together sound like a worthwhile vision. The problem here is the same as the rest of the current ARRL Strategic Plan: There are no tactical plans or metrics as a follow-on for the above statement, which makes this really just "pretty wallpaper." How are we as an organization going to achieve this vision, and how will we measure our success? If this sounds like a broken record, it's because I said exactly the same thing last January in the Board meeting while discussing the "ARRL Strategic Plan 2.0" motion. I think we have a lot of work ahead of us both as a Board, and as an organization. I would hope and expect the elite CEO search committee is using this opportunity to ensure all the final candidates presented to the rest of the Board are both forward and strategic thinkers in this regard, and can actually move the ARRL beyond pretty wallpaper and words. IMHO, what we CANNOT do is get caught up in the political side of current events. The ARRL needs to remain apolitical and centrist. Maybe Barry or Diane can comment on this, but it's interesting to note that I looked on the ARRL website this morning and did not quickly find anything there about the ARRL's policy on anti-discriminatory hiring practices. Maybe it's buried somewhere, but it seems to me that our "anti-discrimination policy" on hiring should be the first thing potential employees see when they log into the ARRL employment opportunities page. Such policies are pretty much mandatory for companies bidding on government contracts, and I'd be shocked if we actually didn't have one on the website. Did I miss something? (Wouldn't be the first time....) :-) 73; Mike W7VO On June 6, 2020 at 5:55 PM Mark J Tharp <kb7hdx@gmail.com<mailto:kb7hdx@gmail.com>> wrote: Personally, I think this is an attempt to gain support for a cause that does not involve the ARRL. We have no dog in this fight. I do not think we should be involved in a response for a racial situation. We have never, nor shall we ever be, racially skewed, and to put out a message that we support, or do not support, a specific incident puts us in another class of organization. One geared towards a political front. In the 31 years I have been a ham, I have NEVER seen a racial twist on anything the league or any ham organization has been involved with. I would say we are considering your request, and will take it under advisement. As an SM for 15 years I was asked many, many times to support, or not support various things, and you have to put the good of the whole in your mind before making a stand on things. I know I made enemies over the years not supporting certain things, and that's OK. At the end of the day, things were better by not being involved. But that is only my opinion, and like all things, everyone has one. Consultation with a PR firm is a good idea, and the outcome of that shared to ODV would be requested. Mark, HDX On Sat, Jun 6, 2020 at 3:04 PM Roderick, Rick, K5UR via arrl-odv < arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org<mailto:arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org>> wrote: Hi all: Yesterday evening the Officers received the email below. The Officers have been discussing what to do and decided on the following: 1. Forward a copy to ODV to assure that you knew about it. Perhaps some of you have received a similar email already or will receive one in the future. 2. Inform the Board that Barry will engage a PR firm to review and advise on: A.) draft response to the individual B.) whether we should issue a policy statement to ARRL members and if so what it should say 3. Share the suggestions from the PR firm with the Board so that the Board can decide on any policy action to be taken. 73, Rick - K5UR -----Original Message----- From: Christopher Broholm < kc3mgf@gmail.com<mailto:kc3mgf@gmail.com>> To: K5UR@arrl.org<mailto:K5UR@arrl.org> Cc: k1twf@arrl.org<mailto:k1twf@arrl.org>; W6RGG@arrl.org<mailto:W6RGG@arrl.org>; w6rod@arrl.org<mailto:w6rod@arrl.org>; n1vxy@arrl.org<mailto:n1vxy@arrl.org>; K7GM@arrl.org<mailto:K7GM@arrl.org> < K7GM@ARRL.ORG<mailto:K7GM@ARRL.ORG>>; dmiddleton@arrl.org<mailto:dmiddleton@arrl.org> Sent: Fri, Jun 5, 2020 7:16 pm Subject: ATTN: ARRL against racial injustice Dear Mr. Roderick and officers of the ARRL, As you’re aware if you’ve watched the news or participate in social media, there has been a large and appropriate response to the murder of Black Americans by police officers taking place over the last several days. Our society is being traumatized by the systemic, institutional racism that pervades the structures that govern and rule our citizenry. Our Black neighbors live in fear every second of every day that their name will be the next that needs to be remembered. That their son or daughter may be the next Black citizen murdered in the streets by people who swore to protect them. As leaders, you have a responsibility to Black ARRL members and hams to openly and loudly affirm that they are safe from racism and discrimination within the ARRL. That you vehemently oppose and condemn the actions of the police officer in Minneapolis who murdered George Floyd in cold blood, along with the hundreds who went before him. I am writing to you as a fellow ham and member of your organization to request that the ARRL take a stance against racial injustice. Events over the last few weeks have caused me to reflect on what organizations I choose to support and what organizations represent me. It has also made me reflect on the hobby as a whole being a predominately white, male hobby. It is imperative, no, necessary that organizations such as yourselves take a firm stance against racism, against police brutality, against the needless killing of black people in America and to take corrective actions to address these systemic issues. Like you, I care deeply for the future of amateur radio and for the ARRL and as such its representative body should be future-facing. I care about, and indeed you should too care about what the ARRL represents. Does it represent the status quo and everything that has brought us to this moment or does it represent the future? We should be working towards a future that empowers black voices and allows them to be heard on the air and off the air. Ask yourself how, for example, a black person interested in amateur radio would feel if the ARRL takes no stance and by its silence tacitly supports the continued genocide of black americans? Saying nothing makes you complicit in the structures of white supremacy, and alienates potential black hams from joining your organization. I want to see amateur radio thrive, and I want it to be more representative of this diverse and beautiful country. That will not happen unless the problem is recognized and addressed by everyone. I implore you to take the following actions towards being inclusive and anti racist: 1. Release a statement condemning recent instances of police brutality against Black Americans, and affirm your stance as being an organization that aims to be inclusive of all races. 1. Develop a plan to address systemic racism within ARRL’s organizational structure. Ignoring this is not an option. We do a deep disservice to ourselves by turning a blind eye and pretending that these events aren’t impacting all of us, particularly our Black members and their families.I am asking this of you because I care deeply about amateur radio. We have a responsibility and we must stay true to our values. If the ARRL is truly a great organization to be a part of, we must continue to prove it. Our members deserve this, our culture deserves this. To this end, there are many anti racism educators that make a living by doing this work and it would behoove the ARRL to pay for them to come in and teach on what is happening. I have recommendations and references for these educators. As a member, I’m ready to help craft a response. Please feel free to contact me. I look forward to being part of the response and reminding ARRL members and hams everywhere that we care about their safety, wellbeing, and right to exist and live free from racism and injustice. Sincerely, Christopher Broholm KC3MGF _______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org<mailto:arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org> https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv _______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org<mailto:arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org> https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
Hi Rick, Have we decided to take any action on this, or do we have a position? I’ve been doing a lot of thinking about this but I’m coming up somewhat empty on what we are doing in the long and short term. I’m not concerned so much about diversity in ARRL employment as I don’t see that as being an issue. I’m more concerned about what we are doing to support our more diverse segment and make ham radio a more welcoming environment for all. From OMIK to (what is left of?) RARA to YLRL, and others, we need to make ham radio a welcoming place for all. This doesn’t have to mean quotas. It does mean that the Mintz and hoke personas presented in 2019 need to probably be looked at with a view to attracting people who aren’t all the same. Yes I get it, these are the types who are interested in ham radio in the US. But we discourage others who may have otherwise had an interest. I realize as well that this may be a question for the new CEO to ponder as well, so we should keep this in mind when we talk to the candidates - specifically I will be asking them what their plan is to (and I’ll be blunt) make ham radio not solely an old white man’s hobby. Thanks in advance for listening. Ria N2RJ On Sat, Jun 6, 2020 at 6:04 PM Roderick, Rick, K5UR via arrl-odv < arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org> wrote:
Hi all:
Yesterday evening the Officers received the email below. The Officers have been discussing what to do and decided on the following:
1. Forward a copy to ODV to assure that you knew about it. Perhaps some of you have received a similar email already or will receive one in the future.
2. Inform the Board that Barry will engage a PR firm to review and advise on:
A.) draft response to the individual
B.) whether we should issue a policy statement to ARRL members and if so what it should say
3. Share the suggestions from the PR firm with the Board so that the Board can decide on any policy action to be taken.
73, Rick - K5UR
-----Original Message----- From: Christopher Broholm <kc3mgf@gmail.com> To: K5UR@arrl.org Cc: k1twf@arrl.org; W6RGG@arrl.org; w6rod@arrl.org; n1vxy@arrl.org; K7GM@arrl.org <K7GM@ARRL.ORG>; dmiddleton@arrl.org Sent: Fri, Jun 5, 2020 7:16 pm Subject: ATTN: ARRL against racial injustice
Dear Mr. Roderick and officers of the ARRL, As you’re aware if you’ve watched the news or participate in social media, there has been a large and appropriate response to the murder of Black Americans by police officers taking place over the last several days. Our society is being traumatized by the systemic, institutional racism that pervades the structures that govern and rule our citizenry. Our Black neighbors live in fear every second of every day that their name will be the next that needs to be remembered. That their son or daughter may be the next Black citizen murdered in the streets by people who swore to protect them. As leaders, you have a responsibility to Black ARRL members and hams to openly and loudly affirm that they are safe from racism and discrimination within the ARRL. That you vehemently oppose and condemn the actions of the police officer in Minneapolis who murdered George Floyd in cold blood, along with the hundreds who went before him. I am writing to you as a fellow ham and member of your organization to request that the ARRL take a stance against racial injustice. Events over the last few weeks have caused me to reflect on what organizations I choose to support and what organizations represent me. It has also made me reflect on the hobby as a whole being a predominately white, male hobby. It is imperative, no, necessary that organizations such as yourselves take a firm stance against racism, against police brutality, against the needless killing of black people in America and to take corrective actions to address these systemic issues.
Like you, I care deeply for the future of amateur radio and for the ARRL and as such its representative body should be future-facing. I care about, and indeed you should too care about what the ARRL represents. Does it represent the status quo and everything that has brought us to this moment or does it represent the future? We should be working towards a future that empowers black voices and allows them to be heard on the air and off the air. Ask yourself how, for example, a black person interested in amateur radio would feel if the ARRL takes no stance and by its silence tacitly supports the continued genocide of black americans? Saying nothing makes you complicit in the structures of white supremacy, and alienates potential black hams from joining your organization. I want to see amateur radio thrive, and I want it to be more representative of this diverse and beautiful country. That will not happen unless the problem is recognized and addressed by everyone. I implore you to take the following actions towards being inclusive and anti racist:
1. Release a statement condemning recent instances of police brutality against Black Americans, and affirm your stance as being an organization that aims to be inclusive of all races. 2. Develop a plan to address systemic racism within ARRL’s organizational structure.
Ignoring this is not an option. We do a deep disservice to ourselves by turning a blind eye and pretending that these events aren’t impacting all of us, particularly our Black members and their families.I am asking this of you because I care deeply about amateur radio. We have a responsibility and we must stay true to our values. If the ARRL is truly a great organization to be a part of, we must continue to prove it. Our members deserve this, our culture deserves this. To this end, there are many anti racism educators that make a living by doing this work and it would behoove the ARRL to pay for them to come in and teach on what is happening. I have recommendations and references for these educators. As a member, I’m ready to help craft a response. Please feel free to contact me. I look forward to being part of the response and reminding ARRL members and hams everywhere that we care about their safety, wellbeing, and right to exist and live free from racism and injustice. Sincerely, Christopher Broholm KC3MGF
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Ria, I'm very supportive of the direction you suggest. We could/should partner with organizations whose goal is inclusion in ham radio. 73, Art K0AIZ On 7/13/2020 8:52 AM, rjairam@gmail.com wrote:
Hi Rick,
Have we decided to take any action on this, or do we have a position? I’ve been doing a lot of thinking about this but I’m coming up somewhat empty on what we are doing in the long and short term.
I’m not concerned so much about diversity in ARRL employment as I don’t see that as being an issue.
I’m more concerned about what we are doing to support our more diverse segment and make ham radio a more welcoming environment for all. From OMIK to (what is left of?) RARA to YLRL, and others, we need to make ham radio a welcoming place for all.
This doesn’t have to mean quotas.
It does mean that the Mintz and hoke personas presented in 2019 need to probably be looked at with a view to attracting people who aren’t all the same. Yes I get it, these are the types who are interested in ham radio in the US. But we discourage others who may have otherwise had an interest.
I realize as well that this may be a question for the new CEO to ponder as well, so we should keep this in mind when we talk to the candidates - specifically I will be asking them what their plan is to (and I’ll be blunt) make ham radio not solely an old white man’s hobby.
Thanks in advance for listening.
Ria N2RJ
On Sat, Jun 6, 2020 at 6:04 PM Roderick, Rick, K5UR via arrl-odv <arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org <mailto:arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org>> wrote:
Hi all:
Yesterday evening the Officers received the email below. The Officers have been discussing what to do and decided on the following:
1. Forward a copy to ODV to assure that you knew about it. Perhaps some of you have received a similar email already or will receive one in the future. 2. Inform the Board that Barry will engage a PR firm to review and advise on: A.)draft response to the individual B.)whether we should issue a policy statement to ARRL members and if so what it should say 3. Share the suggestions from the PR firm with the Board so that the Board can decide on any policy action to be taken.
73, Rick - K5UR
-----Original Message----- From: Christopher Broholm <kc3mgf@gmail.com <mailto:kc3mgf@gmail.com>> To: K5UR@arrl.org <mailto:K5UR@arrl.org> Cc: k1twf@arrl.org <mailto:k1twf@arrl.org>; W6RGG@arrl.org <mailto:W6RGG@arrl.org>; w6rod@arrl.org <mailto:w6rod@arrl.org>; n1vxy@arrl.org <mailto:n1vxy@arrl.org>; K7GM@arrl.org <mailto:K7GM@arrl.org> <K7GM@ARRL.ORG <mailto:K7GM@ARRL.ORG>>; dmiddleton@arrl.org <mailto:dmiddleton@arrl.org> Sent: Fri, Jun 5, 2020 7:16 pm Subject: ATTN: ARRL against racial injustice
Dear Mr. Roderick and officers of the ARRL, As you’re aware if you’ve watched the news or participate in social media, there has been a large and appropriate response to the murder of Black Americans by police officers taking place over the last several days. Our society is being traumatized by the systemic, institutional racism that pervades the structures that govern and rule our citizenry. Our Black neighbors live in fear every second of every day that their name will be the next that needs to be remembered. That their son or daughter may be the next Black citizen murdered in the streets by people who swore to protect them. As leaders, you have a responsibility to Black ARRL members and hams to openly and loudly affirm that they are safe from racism and discrimination within the ARRL. That you vehemently oppose and condemn the actions of the police officer in Minneapolis who murdered George Floyd in cold blood, along with the hundreds who went before him. I am writing to you as a fellow ham and member of your organization to request that the ARRL take a stance against racial injustice. Events over the last few weeks have caused me to reflect on what organizations I choose to support and what organizations represent me. It has also made me reflect on the hobby as a whole being a predominately white, male hobby. It is imperative, no, necessary that organizations such as yourselves take a firm stance against racism, against police brutality, against the needless killing of black people in America and to take corrective actions to address these systemic issues.
Like you, I care deeply for the future of amateur radio and for the ARRL and as such its representative body should be future-facing. I care about, and indeed you should too care about what the ARRL represents. Does it represent the status quo and everything that has brought us to this moment or does it represent the future? We should be working towards a future that empowers black voices and allows them to be heard on the air and off the air. Ask yourself how, for example, a black person interested in amateur radio would feel if the ARRL takes no stance and by its silence tacitly supports the continued genocide of black americans? Saying nothing makes you complicit in the structures of white supremacy, and alienates potential black hams from joining your organization. I want to see amateur radio thrive, and I want it to be more representative of this diverse and beautiful country. That will not happen unless the problem is recognized and addressed by everyone. I implore you to take the following actions towards being inclusive and anti racist:
1. Release a statement condemning recent instances of police brutality against Black Americans, and affirm your stance as being an organization that aims to be inclusive of all races. 2. Develop a plan to address systemic racism within ARRL’s organizational structure.
Ignoring this is not an option. We do a deep disservice to ourselves by turning a blind eye and pretending that these events aren’t impacting all of us, particularly our Black members and their families.I am asking this of you because I care deeply about amateur radio. We have a responsibility and we must stay true to our values. If the ARRL is truly a great organization to be a part of, we must continue to prove it. Our members deserve this, our culture deserves this. To this end, there are many anti racism educators that make a living by doing this work and it would behoove the ARRL to pay for them to come in and teach on what is happening. I have recommendations and references for these educators. As a member, I’m ready to help craft a response. Please feel free to contact me. I look forward to being part of the response and reminding ARRL members and hams everywhere that we care about their safety, wellbeing, and right to exist and live free from racism and injustice. Sincerely, Christopher Broholm KC3MGF
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_______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
Hi Ria: All good points. Thank you. I agree with you about the League employment. Barrymentioned in a previous email about the policies in place for hiring andemployment. However, diversity in hamradio is a challenge as you noted. Our Strategic Plan includes a Diversity and Inclusivenesscomponent under “Values,” but it lacks initiatives and goals. You are correct, weneed to get the new CEO on board to help address this issue and plans, and towork on updating the Strategic Plan which is a Board directive. Your pointabout asking the CEO candidates in the interviews for their vision will be an importantfactor to consider. 73, Rick – K5UR -----Original Message----- From: rjairam@gmail.com <rjairam@gmail.com> To: k5ur@aol.com Cc: arrl-odv@arrl.org <arrl-odv@arrl.org> Sent: Mon, Jul 13, 2020 8:52 am Subject: Re: [arrl-odv:30393] Confidential Hi Rick, Have we decided to take any action on this, or do we have a position? I’ve been doing a lot of thinking about this but I’m coming up somewhat empty on what we are doing in the long and short term. I’m not concerned so much about diversity in ARRL employment as I don’t see that as being an issue. I’m more concerned about what we are doing to support our more diverse segment and make ham radio a more welcoming environment for all. From OMIK to (what is left of?) RARA to YLRL, and others, we need to make ham radio a welcoming place for all. This doesn’t have to mean quotas. It does mean that the Mintz and hoke personas presented in 2019 need to probably be looked at with a view to attracting people who aren’t all the same. Yes I get it, these are the types who are interested in ham radio in the US. But we discourage others who may have otherwise had an interest. I realize as well that this may be a question for the new CEO to ponder as well, so we should keep this in mind when we talk to the candidates - specifically I will be asking them what their plan is to (and I’ll be blunt) make ham radio not solely an old white man’s hobby. Thanks in advance for listening. RiaN2RJ On Sat, Jun 6, 2020 at 6:04 PM Roderick, Rick, K5UR via arrl-odv <arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org> wrote: Hi all: Yesterday evening the Officers received the email below. The Officers have been discussing what to do and decided on the following: 1. Forward a copy to ODV toassure that you knew about it. Perhaps some of you have received a similaremail already or will receive one in the future. 2. Inform the Board thatBarry will engage a PR firm to review and advise on: A.) draft response to theindividual B.) whether we should issuea policy statement to ARRL members and if so what it should say 3. Share the suggestionsfrom the PR firm with the Board so that the Board can decide on any policy actionto be taken. 73,Rick - K5UR -----Original Message----- From: Christopher Broholm <kc3mgf@gmail.com> To: K5UR@arrl.org Cc: k1twf@arrl.org; W6RGG@arrl.org; w6rod@arrl.org; n1vxy@arrl.org; K7GM@arrl.org <K7GM@ARRL.ORG>; dmiddleton@arrl.org Sent: Fri, Jun 5, 2020 7:16 pm Subject: ATTN: ARRL against racial injustice Dear Mr. Roderick and officers of the ARRL, As you’re aware if you’ve watched the news or participate in social media, there has been a large and appropriate response to the murder of Black Americans by police officers taking place over the last several days. Our society is being traumatized by the systemic, institutional racism that pervades the structures that govern and rule our citizenry. Our Black neighbors live in fear every second of every day that their name will be the next that needs to be remembered. That their son or daughter may be the next Black citizen murdered in the streets by people who swore to protect them.As leaders, you have a responsibility to Black ARRL members and hams to openly and loudly affirm that they are safe from racism and discrimination within the ARRL. That you vehemently oppose and condemn the actions of the police officer in Minneapolis who murdered George Floyd in cold blood, along with the hundreds who went before him. I am writing to you as a fellow ham and member of your organization to request that the ARRL take a stance against racial injustice. Events over the last few weeks have caused me to reflect on what organizations I choose to support and what organizations represent me. It has also made me reflect on the hobby as a whole being a predominately white, male hobby. It is imperative, no, necessary that organizations such as yourselves take a firm stance against racism, against police brutality, against the needless killing of black people in America and to take corrective actions to address these systemic issues. Like you, I care deeply for the future of amateur radio and for the ARRL and as such its representative body should be future-facing. I care about, and indeed you should too care about what the ARRL represents. Does it represent the status quo and everything that has brought us to this moment or does it represent the future? We should be working towards a future that empowers black voices and allows them to be heard on the air and off the air. Ask yourself how, for example, a black person interested in amateur radio would feel if the ARRL takes no stance and by its silence tacitly supports the continued genocide of black americans? Saying nothing makes you complicit in the structures of white supremacy, and alienates potential black hams from joining your organization. I want to see amateur radio thrive, and I want it to be more representative of this diverse and beautiful country. That will not happen unless the problem is recognized and addressed by everyone. I implore you to take the following actions towards being inclusive and anti racist: - Release a statement condemning recent instances of police brutality against Black Americans, and affirm your stance as being an organization that aims to be inclusive of all races. - Develop a plan to address systemic racism within ARRL’s organizational structure. Ignoring this is not an option. We do a deep disservice to ourselves by turning a blind eye and pretending that these events aren’t impacting all of us, particularly our Black members and their families.I am asking this of you because I care deeply about amateur radio. We have a responsibility and we must stay true to our values. If the ARRL is truly a great organization to be a part of, we must continue to prove it. Our members deserve this, our culture deserves this. To this end, there are many anti racism educators that make a living by doing this work and it would behoove the ARRL to pay for them to come in and teach on what is happening. I have recommendations and references for these educators.As a member, I’m ready to help craft a response. Please feel free to contact me. I look forward to being part of the response and reminding ARRL members and hams everywhere that we care about their safety, wellbeing, and right to exist and live free from racism and injustice.Sincerely, Christopher BroholmKC3MGF _______________________________________________ arrl-odv mailing list arrl-odv@reflector.arrl.org https://reflector.arrl.org/mailman/listinfo/arrl-odv
participants (10)
-
Arthur I. Zygielbaum -
Ed Hudgens -
k5ur＠aol.com -
Mark J Tharp -
Michael Ritz -
Mickey Baker -
Mike Raisbeck -
rjairam＠gmail.com -
Shelley, Barry, N1VXY (CEO) -
WILLIAM HUDZIK