Why is this a problem?
Some committees do not have a clear way for people to report accessibility problems or problems with how people treat each other. When there is no clear process:
- People may feel scared to speak up because they worry about social consequences.
- New or marginalized members may feel left out or stay silent.
- People may not know who to contact when something goes wrong.
- Complaints may fall through the cracks and the same problems may keep happening.
- People may feel unsafe and decide to leave the committee.
- People may be afraid to ask for accommodations in the future.
- Trust in the system may go down.
Ways to address the barrier
Create a shared support system
Actions for Budget
Empower chairs and facilitators to manage conflict
Actions for Facilitating , Organizing , and Training and knowledge building
Provide guidance and ongoing support to new members
Actions for Preparing for committees