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In a message dated 5/13/04 11:27:30 AM, [email protected] writes:
>
> After the conclusion of a recent open space, one of the planners shared
> feedback she had received from another participant who had elected not to
> post a
> topic because she did not want to bend over in front of the group because of
> concern about her “fat butt.” We had a brief discussion about what to do to
> accommodate those with this concern, as well as those who have disabilities
> that may not permit them to pick up paper and markers or who may be wearing
> clothes that might make bending over in front of a group embarrassing. This
> is the first time I received this feedback, and so was wondering if others
> have received similar input and have suggestions for how best to address it.
> Best,
>
> Tim--
I always ask the leader of the group to open the Open Space--from the center
of the circle, if they are willing. Sometimes they will comment, out loud,
that it feels awkward. One delightful woman leader remarked, with a giggle,
that it felt strange to have half the group behind her, and she was embarrassed
because she felt her butt was too big. Needless to say, the whole group
relaxed and let go of a few worries of their own!
I can't easily kneel or sit on the floor because of problem knees, so I
generally pick up a paper and pen and return to my chair to write my poster.
And
when I facilitate, I add a few cardboards to the paper and pens in the center,
letting people know they are there if they want sit to do their writing.
And I encourage people to wear casual, comfortable clothes.
I think your participant is in the minority, as most people seem to find a
way to manage what they want to do. One woman, whom I think does not read or
write, hesitated with a blank paper in her hand for a long time, then had a
friend write the poster. She confided in me that she asked a friend to write
for her because her handwriting is bad. She convened a session with a
question
about how certain decisions are made, and the director was a participant in
that session.
Joelle Everett
Shelton, Washington, USA
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