Re: [OSList] Open Space in Charlottesville

[Harrison Owen via OSList]

The only suggestion I would make is not to take any questions. May seem rude, 
but the fact of the matter is that everything will be clear upon departure, and 
the sooner you get to take off the better. One side note—Personal prejudice, 
I’m sure—The original “5 Principles” and One Law quickly do the job, and my 
preference is always to quickly get out of the way and let the people do their 
job. Good Luck!

 

Harrison

 

Winter Address

7808 River Falls Dr.

Potomac, MD 20854

301-365-2093

 

Summer Address

189 Beaucauire Ave

Camden, ME 04843

207 763-3261

 

Websites

www.openspaceworld.com

www.ho-image.com

 

From: OSList [mailto:oslist-boun...@lists.openspacetech.org] On Behalf Of Lucas 
Cioffi via OSList
Sent: Tuesday, August 29, 2017 6:29 PM
To: World wide Open Space Technology email list
Subject: Re: [OSList] Open Space in Charlottesville

 

Hello Harrison, thanks so much for the prompt reply.  Below is the draft script 
for the event.  I wrote it down since I'm out of practice.  I won't read it 
word for word; it's just a guide.  You'll see the rules and the law are not 
referred to directly, since I think the crowd will understand it better if we 
explain it like this.

 

Of course I may be very wrong about that.  I'm just doing what seems best in my 
judgement.  I'm 100% open to any and all suggestions!

 

Lucas

 

 

 

 


8:30am: Opening

 

[JESSICA]

Welcome, everyone.  My name is Jessica G.  And my name is Lucas C.  All of us 
are gathered here to think together, and we are here to work together. If this 
goes well, it could be the start of something big.

 

Charlottesville’s name has been tarnished.  We have a window of opportunity for 
a second act.  That window is closing.

 

If there’s one community that can think outside the box and is not intimidated 
by obstacles, it’s the tech community.  But we need vision, we need passion, 
and we need to be grounded in what’s practical, so that’s why we invited the 
leaders of ten local civic and activist groups from across the political 
spectrum.

 

[LUCAS]

This is a participant-driven event, and it will be what we all make of it.  Our 
job as facilitators is to help you be at your best and then to get out of the 
way

 

Some ground rules for all of us to keep in mind:

·Everyone is welcome here, and we mean everyone.

·All ideas are welcome here, and we mean all ideas.

·This is a safe space for all of us to express any idea, even ones 
which are tough to hear, as long as you are coming from a place of respect.

·And on the flip side, if you hear something that triggers you, first 
please assume that the other person is coming from a place of respect.

·Think about who is not in the room and speak for them if you can.  We 
don’t represent all of Charlottesville, so it’s important to think about who 
isn’t present so that we find solutions that work for the most people.

 

Think big.  What can we do as a tech community and as a city that makes a 
splash nationally?  Can you think of a solution that breaks out of the 
left-right paradigm, or a solution that helps us find commonality rather than 
getting tripped up over a long and complicated racial past?  Can you find 
solutions that appeal to both the center and the fringes?

 

Here’s how this event will happen.  You see over there an open agenda wall.  
Across the top, you see six spaces: the four corners of this room, Conference 
Room 1, and Conference Room 2.  Going down the left side, you see three rounds 
of discussion.  Each round lasts 40 minutes with a 5-minute break in between.  
There will be a 15-minute closing session at the end.

 

If you want remote participants to be able to join your session, then please 
schedule your session in one of the conference rooms.

 

In a moment, each of us will have the opportunity to post a session topic.  
You’ll walk to the center of the circle, pick up a piece of paper and a marker. 
 Write the discussion topic and your name.  Announce it, and then post it on 
the agenda wall.  Sessions should be conversational rather than presentations 
or monologues.  All you have to do have are some great questions, and the 
answers will come through the discussion.

 

Let’s give everyone a moment to think about what sessions they want to hold 
before we get started.

 

(pause for a minute)

 

Ok, when you’re ready, please go ahead and write down your session topic and 
then announce it.

 

(people start announcing and posting their topics on the wall)

 

Now we’ll start the breakout sessions.  This is your event, so you won’t see us 
dropping by to remind you of how much time is left or the need to wrap up.  If 
your conversation is running long, please take it to the cafe area, out of 
respect for the people who are participating in the next session in that space.

 

Open space has the law of two feet, which means that if find a conversation 
isn’t going the way you expected, you are highly e

Re: [OSList] Open Space in Charlottesville

[Michael Herman via OSList]

the thing i like about the original principles and law is that they are
essentially descriptive, rather than prescriptive "ground rules."  the law,
for instance, doesn't say one must use their two feet, it says "you and
only you know when you are learning and contributing as much as you can."
 this isn't a ground rule, it's more like a law of nature, defy it at your
own risk.  the moving about with two feet is just describing what happens
when people notice and act on the reality of the natural law.

the other thing i notice, lucas, is that you're attempting to promise
safety.  that's a tall order.  made taller by simultaneously saying that
ALL ideas are welcome.  the combination of inviting everyone to learn and
contribute as much as they can, on the one hand, and be prepared to be
surprised, on the other, should be enough.  if you promise "safe" space,
then as soon as anyone feels bad the hosts/facilitators are seen as
responsible.  what you want is for everyone to be responsible for
everyone's safety.  when the event finishes and everyone is still okay,
THAT is something the group (not the facilitator) has done for itself,
perhaps even the MOST important thing.  the principles and law accomplish
that pretty well.






--

Michael Herman
Michael Herman Associates
312-280-7838 (mobile)

http://MichaelHerman.com
http://OpenSpaceWorld.org



On Thu, Aug 31, 2017 at 4:30 AM, Harrison Owen via OSList <
oslist@lists.openspacetech.org> wrote:

> The only suggestion I would make is not to take any questions. May seem
> rude, but the fact of the matter is that everything will be clear upon
> departure, and the sooner you get to take off the better. One side
> note—Personal prejudice, I’m sure—The original “5 Principles” and One Law
> quickly do the job, and my preference is always to quickly get out of the
> way and let the people do their job. Good Luck!
>
>
>
> Harrison
>
>
>
> Winter Address
>
> 7808 River Falls Dr.
>
> Potomac, MD 20854
>
> 301-365-2093 <(301)%20365-2093>
>
>
>
> Summer Address
>
> 189 Beaucauire Ave
>
> Camden, ME 04843
>
> 207 763-3261 <(207)%20763-3261>
>
>
>
> Websites
>
> www.openspaceworld.com
>
> www.ho-image.com
>
>
>
> *From:* OSList [mailto:oslist-boun...@lists.openspacetech.org] *On Behalf
> Of *Lucas Cioffi via OSList
> *Sent:* Tuesday, August 29, 2017 6:29 PM
> *To:* World wide Open Space Technology email list
> *Subject:* Re: [OSList] Open Space in Charlottesville
>
>
>
> Hello Harrison, thanks so much for the prompt reply.  Below is the draft
> script for the event.  I wrote it down since I'm out of practice.  I won't
> read it word for word; it's just a guide.  You'll see the rules and the law
> are not referred to directly, since I think the crowd will understand it
> better if we explain it like this.
>
>
>
> Of course I may be very wrong about that.  I'm just doing what seems best
> in my judgement.  I'm 100% open to any and all suggestions!
>
>
>
> Lucas
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> 8:30am: Opening
>
>
>
> [JESSICA]
>
> Welcome, everyone.  My name is Jessica G.  And my name is Lucas C.  All of
> us are gathered here to think together, and we are here to work together.
> If this goes well, it could be the start of something big.
>
>
>
> Charlottesville’s name has been tarnished.  We have a window of
> opportunity for a second act.  That window is closing.
>
>
>
> If there’s one community that can think outside the box and is not
> intimidated by obstacles, it’s the tech community.  But we need vision, we
> need passion, and we need to be grounded in what’s practical, so that’s why
> we invited the leaders of ten local civic and activist groups from across
> the political spectrum.
>
>
>
> [LUCAS]
>
> This is a participant-driven event, and it will be what we all make of
> it.  Our job as facilitators is to help you be at your best and then to get
> out of the way
>
>
>
> Some ground rules for all of us to keep in mind:
>
> ·Everyone is welcome here, and we mean everyone.
>
> ·All ideas are welcome here, and we mean all ideas.
>
> ·This is a safe space for all of us to express any idea, even
> ones which are tough to hear, as long as you are coming from a place of
> respect.
>
> ·And on the flip side, if you hear something that triggers you,
> first please assume that the other person is coming from a place of respect.
>
> ·Think about who is not in the room and speak for them if you
> can.  We don’t represent all of Charlottesville, so it’s important to think
> about who isn’t present so that we find solutions that work for the most
> people.
>
>
>
> Think big.  What can we do as a tech community and as a city that makes a
> splash nationally?  Can you think of a solution that breaks out of the
> left-right paradigm, or a solution that helps us find commonality rather
> than getting tripped up over a long and complicated racial past?  Can you
> find solutions that appeal to both the center and the fringes?
>
>
>
> Here’s how this event will h

Re: [OSList] Open Space in Charlottesville

[Harrison Owen via OSList]

Well said, Michael!

 

hl

 

Winter Address

7808 River Falls Dr.

Potomac, MD 20854

301-365-2093

 

Summer Address

189 Beaucauire Ave

Camden, ME 04843

207 763-3261

 

Websites

www.openspaceworld.com

www.ho-image.com

 

From: mjher...@gmail.com [mailto:mjher...@gmail.com] On Behalf Of Michael Herman
Sent: Thursday, August 31, 2017 10:17 AM
To: Harrison Owen; World wide Open Space Technology email list
Subject: Re: [OSList] Open Space in Charlottesville

 

the thing i like about the original principles and law is that they are 
essentially descriptive, rather than prescriptive "ground rules."  the law, for 
instance, doesn't say one must use their two feet, it says "you and only you 
know when you are learning and contributing as much as you can."  this isn't a 
ground rule, it's more like a law of nature, defy it at your own risk.  the 
moving about with two feet is just describing what happens when people notice 
and act on the reality of the natural law.

 

the other thing i notice, lucas, is that you're attempting to promise safety.  
that's a tall order.  made taller by simultaneously saying that ALL ideas are 
welcome.  the combination of inviting everyone to learn and contribute as much 
as they can, on the one hand, and be prepared to be surprised, on the other, 
should be enough.  if you promise "safe" space, then as soon as anyone feels 
bad the hosts/facilitators are seen as responsible.  what you want is for 
everyone to be responsible for everyone's safety.  when the event finishes and 
everyone is still okay, THAT is something the group (not the facilitator) has 
done for itself, perhaps even the MOST important thing.  the principles and law 
accomplish that pretty well.

 

 

 

 




 
--

Michael Herman
Michael Herman Associates

312-280-7838 (mobile)

 

http://MichaelHerman.com
http://OpenSpaceWorld.org

 

 

On Thu, Aug 31, 2017 at 4:30 AM, Harrison Owen via OSList 
 wrote:

The only suggestion I would make is not to take any questions. May seem rude, 
but the fact of the matter is that everything will be clear upon departure, and 
the sooner you get to take off the better. One side note—Personal prejudice, 
I’m sure—The original “5 Principles” and One Law quickly do the job, and my 
preference is always to quickly get out of the way and let the people do their 
job. Good Luck!

 

Harrison

 

Winter Address

7808 River Falls Dr.

Potomac, MD 20854

301-365-2093  

 

Summer Address

189 Beaucauire Ave

Camden, ME 04843

207 763-3261  

 

Websites

www.openspaceworld.com

www.ho-image.com

 

From: OSList [mailto:oslist-boun...@lists.openspacetech.org] On Behalf Of Lucas 
Cioffi via OSList
Sent: Tuesday, August 29, 2017 6:29 PM
To: World wide Open Space Technology email list
Subject: Re: [OSList] Open Space in Charlottesville

 

Hello Harrison, thanks so much for the prompt reply.  Below is the draft script 
for the event.  I wrote it down since I'm out of practice.  I won't read it 
word for word; it's just a guide.  You'll see the rules and the law are not 
referred to directly, since I think the crowd will understand it better if we 
explain it like this.

 

Of course I may be very wrong about that.  I'm just doing what seems best in my 
judgement.  I'm 100% open to any and all suggestions!

 

Lucas

 

 

 

 


8:30am: Opening

 

[JESSICA]

Welcome, everyone.  My name is Jessica G.  And my name is Lucas C.  All of us 
are gathered here to think together, and we are here to work together. If this 
goes well, it could be the start of something big.

 

Charlottesville’s name has been tarnished.  We have a window of opportunity for 
a second act.  That window is closing.

 

If there’s one community that can think outside the box and is not intimidated 
by obstacles, it’s the tech community.  But we need vision, we need passion, 
and we need to be grounded in what’s practical, so that’s why we invited the 
leaders of ten local civic and activist groups from across the political 
spectrum.

 

[LUCAS]

This is a participant-driven event, and it will be what we all make of it.  Our 
job as facilitators is to help you be at your best and then to get out of the 
way

 

Some ground rules for all of us to keep in mind:

·Everyone is welcome here, and we mean everyone.

·All ideas are welcome here, and we mean all ideas.

·This is a safe space for all of us to express any idea, even ones 
which are tough to hear, as long as you are coming from a place of respect.

·And on the flip side, if you hear something that triggers you, first 
please assume that the other person is coming from a place of respect.

·Think about who is not in the room and speak for them if you can.  We 
don’t represent all of Charlottesville, so it’s important to think about who 
isn’t present so that we find solutions that work for the most people.

 

Think big.  What can we do as a tech community and as a city that makes a 
splash nationally?  Can you think

Re: [OSList] Open Space in Charlottesville

[Birgitt Williams via OSList]

Hi Lucas,
I echo Michael's comments about 'safety'...it cannot be promised.

I got into the start of your scripted intro and thought..."this is too
small a space that Lucas is creating...this is such a great opportunity". I
would not make definitive statements about the tarnished name of
Charlottesville etc as I think that closes some of the space.. Rather, I
would really open the space wide for creating the community we love". Who
knows what inspirations might show up!

I wish you stellar outcomes! And yes, I would do it 'by the book'!
Birgitt

On Thu, Aug 31, 2017 at 10:17 AM Michael Herman via OSList <
oslist@lists.openspacetech.org> wrote:

> the thing i like about the original principles and law is that they are
> essentially descriptive, rather than prescriptive "ground rules."  the law,
> for instance, doesn't say one must use their two feet, it says "you and
> only you know when you are learning and contributing as much as you can."
>  this isn't a ground rule, it's more like a law of nature, defy it at your
> own risk.  the moving about with two feet is just describing what happens
> when people notice and act on the reality of the natural law.
>
> the other thing i notice, lucas, is that you're attempting to promise
> safety.  that's a tall order.  made taller by simultaneously saying that
> ALL ideas are welcome.  the combination of inviting everyone to learn and
> contribute as much as they can, on the one hand, and be prepared to be
> surprised, on the other, should be enough.  if you promise "safe" space,
> then as soon as anyone feels bad the hosts/facilitators are seen as
> responsible.  what you want is for everyone to be responsible for
> everyone's safety.  when the event finishes and everyone is still okay,
> THAT is something the group (not the facilitator) has done for itself,
> perhaps even the MOST important thing.  the principles and law accomplish
> that pretty well.
>
>
>
>
>
>
> --
>
> Michael Herman
> Michael Herman Associates
> 312-280-7838 <(312)%20280-7838> (mobile)
>
> http://MichaelHerman.com
> http://OpenSpaceWorld.org
>
>
>
> On Thu, Aug 31, 2017 at 4:30 AM, Harrison Owen via OSList <
> oslist@lists.openspacetech.org> wrote:
>
>> The only suggestion I would make is not to take any questions. May seem
>> rude, but the fact of the matter is that everything will be clear upon
>> departure, and the sooner you get to take off the better. One side
>> note—Personal prejudice, I’m sure—The original “5 Principles” and One Law
>> quickly do the job, and my preference is always to quickly get out of the
>> way and let the people do their job. Good Luck!
>>
>>
>>
>> Harrison
>>
>>
>>
>> Winter Address
>>
>> 7808 River Falls Dr.
>>
>> Potomac, MD 20854
>>
>> 301-365-2093 <(301)%20365-2093>
>>
>>
>>
>> Summer Address
>>
>> 189 Beaucauire Ave
>>
>> Camden, ME 04843
>>
>> 207 763-3261 <(207)%20763-3261>
>>
>>
>>
>> Websites
>>
>> www.openspaceworld.com
>>
>> www.ho-image.com
>>
>>
>>
>> *From:* OSList [mailto:oslist-boun...@lists.openspacetech.org] *On
>> Behalf Of *Lucas Cioffi via OSList
>> *Sent:* Tuesday, August 29, 2017 6:29 PM
>> *To:* World wide Open Space Technology email list
>> *Subject:* Re: [OSList] Open Space in Charlottesville
>>
>>
>>
>> Hello Harrison, thanks so much for the prompt reply.  Below is the draft
>> script for the event.  I wrote it down since I'm out of practice.  I won't
>> read it word for word; it's just a guide.  You'll see the rules and the law
>> are not referred to directly, since I think the crowd will understand it
>> better if we explain it like this.
>>
>>
>>
>> Of course I may be very wrong about that.  I'm just doing what seems best
>> in my judgement.  I'm 100% open to any and all suggestions!
>>
>>
>>
>> Lucas
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> 8:30am: Opening
>>
>>
>>
>> [JESSICA]
>>
>> Welcome, everyone.  My name is Jessica G.  And my name is Lucas C.  All
>> of us are gathered here to think together, and we are here to work
>> together. If this goes well, it could be the start of something big.
>>
>>
>>
>> Charlottesville’s name has been tarnished.  We have a window of
>> opportunity for a second act.  That window is closing.
>>
>>
>>
>> If there’s one community that can think outside the box and is not
>> intimidated by obstacles, it’s the tech community.  But we need vision, we
>> need passion, and we need to be grounded in what’s practical, so that’s why
>> we invited the leaders of ten local civic and activist groups from across
>> the political spectrum.
>>
>>
>>
>> [LUCAS]
>>
>> This is a participant-driven event, and it will be what we all make of
>> it.  Our job as facilitators is to help you be at your best and then to get
>> out of the way
>>
>>
>>
>> Some ground rules for all of us to keep in mind:
>>
>> ·Everyone is welcome here, and we mean everyone.
>>
>> ·All ideas are welcome here, and we mean all ideas.
>>
>> ·This is a safe space for all of us to express any idea, even
>> ones which are tough to hear, as

Re: [OSList] Open Space in Charlottesville

[Chris Corrigan via OSList]

Instead of inviting questions, ask for a show of hands from everyone who has 
enough clarity to proceed. Ask people to hold their hands high. Then tell 
everyone that if you have a question about how things will work, ask one of the 
people with their hands held up. 

Chris. 

___
CHRIS CORRIGAN
www.chriscorrigan.com


> On Aug 31, 2017, at 1:50 PM, Birgitt Williams via OSList 
>  wrote:
> 
> Hi Lucas,
> I echo Michael's comments about 'safety'...it cannot be promised.
> 
> I got into the start of your scripted intro and thought..."this is too small 
> a space that Lucas is creating...this is such a great opportunity". I would 
> not make definitive statements about the tarnished name of Charlottesville 
> etc as I think that closes some of the space.. Rather, I would really open 
> the space wide for creating the community we love". Who knows what 
> inspirations might show up!
> 
> I wish you stellar outcomes! And yes, I would do it 'by the book'!
> Birgitt
> 
>> On Thu, Aug 31, 2017 at 10:17 AM Michael Herman via OSList 
>>  wrote:
>> the thing i like about the original principles and law is that they are 
>> essentially descriptive, rather than prescriptive "ground rules."  the law, 
>> for instance, doesn't say one must use their two feet, it says "you and only 
>> you know when you are learning and contributing as much as you can."  this 
>> isn't a ground rule, it's more like a law of nature, defy it at your own 
>> risk.  the moving about with two feet is just describing what happens when 
>> people notice and act on the reality of the natural law.
>> 
>> the other thing i notice, lucas, is that you're attempting to promise 
>> safety.  that's a tall order.  made taller by simultaneously saying that ALL 
>> ideas are welcome.  the combination of inviting everyone to learn and 
>> contribute as much as they can, on the one hand, and be prepared to be 
>> surprised, on the other, should be enough.  if you promise "safe" space, 
>> then as soon as anyone feels bad the hosts/facilitators are seen as 
>> responsible.  what you want is for everyone to be responsible for everyone's 
>> safety.  when the event finishes and everyone is still okay, THAT is 
>> something the group (not the facilitator) has done for itself, perhaps even 
>> the MOST important thing.  the principles and law accomplish that pretty 
>> well.
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>>  
>> --
>> 
>> Michael Herman
>> Michael Herman Associates
>> 312-280-7838 (mobile)
>> 
>> http://MichaelHerman.com
>> http://OpenSpaceWorld.org
>> 
>> 
>> 
>>> On Thu, Aug 31, 2017 at 4:30 AM, Harrison Owen via OSList 
>>>  wrote:
>>> The only suggestion I would make is not to take any questions. May seem 
>>> rude, but the fact of the matter is that everything will be clear upon 
>>> departure, and the sooner you get to take off the better. One side 
>>> note—Personal prejudice, I’m sure—The original “5 Principles” and One Law 
>>> quickly do the job, and my preference is always to quickly get out of the 
>>> way and let the people do their job. Good Luck!
>>> 
>>>  
>>> 
>>> Harrison
>>> 
>>>  
>>> 
>>> Winter Address
>>> 
>>> 7808 River Falls Dr.
>>> 
>>> Potomac, MD 20854
>>> 
>>> 301-365-2093
>>> 
>>>  
>>> 
>>> Summer Address
>>> 
>>> 189 Beaucauire Ave
>>> 
>>> Camden, ME 04843
>>> 
>>> 207 763-3261
>>> 
>>>  
>>> 
>>> Websites
>>> 
>>> www.openspaceworld.com
>>> 
>>> www.ho-image.com
>>> 
>>>  
>>> 
>>> From: OSList [mailto:oslist-boun...@lists.openspacetech.org] On Behalf Of 
>>> Lucas Cioffi via OSList
>>> Sent: Tuesday, August 29, 2017 6:29 PM
>>> To: World wide Open Space Technology email list
>>> Subject: Re: [OSList] Open Space in Charlottesville
>>> 
>>>  
>>> 
>>> Hello Harrison, thanks so much for the prompt reply.  Below is the draft 
>>> script for the event.  I wrote it down since I'm out of practice.  I won't 
>>> read it word for word; it's just a guide.  You'll see the rules and the law 
>>> are not referred to directly, since I think the crowd will understand it 
>>> better if we explain it like this.
>>> 
>>>  
>>> 
>>> Of course I may be very wrong about that.  I'm just doing what seems best 
>>> in my judgement.  I'm 100% open to any and all suggestions!
>>> 
>>>  
>>> 
>>> Lucas
>>> 
>>>  
>>> 
>>>  
>>> 
>>>  
>>> 
>>>  
>>> 
>>> 8:30am: Opening
>>>  
>>> 
>>> [JESSICA]
>>> Welcome, everyone.  My name is Jessica G.  And my name is Lucas C.  All of 
>>> us are gathered here to think together, and we are here to work together. 
>>> If this goes well, it could be the start of something big.
>>>  
>>> 
>>> Charlottesville’s name has been tarnished.  We have a window of opportunity 
>>> for a second act.  That window is closing.
>>>  
>>> 
>>> If there’s one community that can think outside the box and is not 
>>> intimidated by obstacles, it’s the tech community.  But we need vision, we 
>>> need passion, and we need to be grounded in what’s practical, so that’s why 
>>> we invited the leaders of ten local civic and activist groups from

Re: [OSList] Open Space in Charlottesville

[Lucas Cioffi via OSList]

Harrison, thank you so much for the tips and the vote of confidence from
afar.  I got in touch with Kai for the next event if/when that happens.

Michael, I very much appreciate your insight about making the
responsibility for security a shared one.  I think telling white
nationalists that they are welcome here will make them less defensive and
more agreeable, but I don't know; we had some republican operatives and
liberal activists but no one on the fringe on either side.

The reason I called this openspace-ish is that the process deviated from a
"by-the-book" approach.  We started planning six days ago, got 50 people to
sign up by this morning, and 40 showed up.  We're taking an iterative
approach and we wanted to put a quick "win" on the board.  Here's a photo
of part of our opening circle
 (half the people are
off-camera, with the opening circle being three levels deep at some points
to accommodate the square shape of the room).

We're going to do this in-person again with just leaders of the activist
groups, since there are a lot of duplication & wheels spinning but not much
traction.  And we're going to do it online using Zoom + Qiqo for breakout
rooms.

I had a co-facilitator for this one (Jessica) who gave the intro and
conducted a centering exercise since she's a yoga instructor.  I wanted to
teach her a process that works for her, since I'm moving out of state in a
few months, and I hope she can take this and run with it.

I wish there was another word for "ground rules", but they did the trick if
presented with enthusiasm.  I know that OST has "rules" and a "law".  In
some ways it seems a bit inconsistent from empowering the participants
because the rules come from an unknown source (from the perspective of the
participants).

I couldn't resist walking around with "5 min remaining" signs when sessions
were going to end.  I didn't have confidence that the group would move on
and make space for the next discussion without being prodded.  I wish I
didn't have to do that.  Maybe I don't.  The agenda wall was in the best
spot in the room, but there wasn't enough space for everyone to look at the
next sessions, so I read the sessions to the four corners of the room right
as their previous sessions were ending.  This was more efficient so that
they could know which ones they wanted to attend.  We had four breakout
rooms outside the main room, and my co-host read the new session topics to
those folks.

I'm still processing it all.  It was lots of fun.  These topics of race are
hard as we all know, and no one got upset.  People appreciated the
participant-driven nature of this OS-ish event.

Lucas



​Schedule & Script

8:30am: Opening

[JESSICA]

Good morning and welcome, everyone.  My name is Jessica Glendinning.

[LUCAS]

And my name is Lucas Cioffi.

[JESSICA - 3 min]

First, thank you for joining us this morning. We know how full your lives
are, and we want to express our gratitude for your presence here this
morning -- that you have come together to think, discuss, innovate, and
collaborate.

(tiny pause)

The events of August 12th left a deep mark on Charlottesville. Over the
past 3 weeks, we’ve been a nationally trending hashtag and at the center of
divisive political commentary. And yes, our name has been tarnished. But
more importantly, there are deeper issues within our community that have
been pushed to the surface -- issues of racism and inequality that are
woven into the history of the city (and the country) we call home.

Our community is beginning to heal, and some of our greatest possibilities
still lie ahead -- and we find ourselves with a window of opportunity for a
second act. To come together as a community united, and to take action to
create more equitable and economically viable conditions for every member
of our community. Conditions that work for all of our citizens, across the
political spectrum and the current racial divides.

And while we’re focusing on the issues facing our community, keep in mind
that the solutions we discover may turn out to be globally applicable. Our
country is in a spiraling cycle of racial violence. What happened here is a
preview of what could happen on the streets of other cities in the months
ahead.  We have an opportunity to try to change that by doing something
unexpected and bold, that changes the narrative as a result.

Piece of cake, right? ;)

But in all seriousness - and despite the enormity of the task ahead - if
there’s one group that can think outside the box and find creative
solutions to any obstacle, it’s the tech community. Every day, our industry
tackles solving some of the world’s most pressing problems.

As we get started today, let’s talk about a few key qualities that are
necessary for an event like this: we need vision, we need passion, and we
also need to be grounded in what’s practical. That’s why we invited the
leaders of ten local civic and activist groups from across the poli

Re: [OSList] Open Space in Charlottesville

[Lucas Cioffi via OSList]

Birgitt, thanks for your thoughts too about focusing on the positive to not
close the space.

Chris, that's an interesting approach.  I might just try it next time.

This is what I'm still pondering...
>From my experience of OS and unconferences, they lead to great wide-ranging
discussions but little in the way of action and implementation, if the
audience is a community.  I've read the book and remember the Olympics
example where one company had to plan a better way forward for a very tight
deadline.  They have the time to implement the next day when they see each
other at the office.  Community OSTs and unconferences usually fizzle from
my experience as a participant and organizer.

We're going to try something different this time, where people will be able
to step up as stewards or project managers of any action plan they started
to create today.  Each week they'll be able to post a 2-sentence update in
a newsletter.  There, they'll be able to ask for volunteers to help with
specific tasks.  They'll be able to congregate on Slack (a group chat
tool).  We'll also host some video breakout sessions for live discussion to
complement the asynch chat discussions.  More suggestions are absolutely
welcome.


Lucas Cioffi
Founder, QiqoChat.com
Charlottesville, VA
Mobile: 917-528-1831

On Thu, Aug 31, 2017 at 4:50 PM, Birgitt Williams via OSList <
oslist@lists.openspacetech.org> wrote:

> Hi Lucas,
> I echo Michael's comments about 'safety'...it cannot be promised.
>
> I got into the start of your scripted intro and thought..."this is too
> small a space that Lucas is creating...this is such a great opportunity". I
> would not make definitive statements about the tarnished name of
> Charlottesville etc as I think that closes some of the space.. Rather, I
> would really open the space wide for creating the community we love". Who
> knows what inspirations might show up!
>
> I wish you stellar outcomes! And yes, I would do it 'by the book'!
> Birgitt
>
> On Thu, Aug 31, 2017 at 10:17 AM Michael Herman via OSList <
> oslist@lists.openspacetech.org> wrote:
>
>> the thing i like about the original principles and law is that they are
>> essentially descriptive, rather than prescriptive "ground rules."  the law,
>> for instance, doesn't say one must use their two feet, it says "you and
>> only you know when you are learning and contributing as much as you can."
>>  this isn't a ground rule, it's more like a law of nature, defy it at your
>> own risk.  the moving about with two feet is just describing what happens
>> when people notice and act on the reality of the natural law.
>>
>> the other thing i notice, lucas, is that you're attempting to promise
>> safety.  that's a tall order.  made taller by simultaneously saying that
>> ALL ideas are welcome.  the combination of inviting everyone to learn and
>> contribute as much as they can, on the one hand, and be prepared to be
>> surprised, on the other, should be enough.  if you promise "safe" space,
>> then as soon as anyone feels bad the hosts/facilitators are seen as
>> responsible.  what you want is for everyone to be responsible for
>> everyone's safety.  when the event finishes and everyone is still okay,
>> THAT is something the group (not the facilitator) has done for itself,
>> perhaps even the MOST important thing.  the principles and law accomplish
>> that pretty well.
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> --
>>
>> Michael Herman
>> Michael Herman Associates
>> 312-280-7838 <(312)%20280-7838> (mobile)
>>
>> http://MichaelHerman.com
>> http://OpenSpaceWorld.org
>>
>>
>>
>> On Thu, Aug 31, 2017 at 4:30 AM, Harrison Owen via OSList <
>> oslist@lists.openspacetech.org> wrote:
>>
>>> The only suggestion I would make is not to take any questions. May seem
>>> rude, but the fact of the matter is that everything will be clear upon
>>> departure, and the sooner you get to take off the better. One side
>>> note—Personal prejudice, I’m sure—The original “5 Principles” and One Law
>>> quickly do the job, and my preference is always to quickly get out of the
>>> way and let the people do their job. Good Luck!
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Harrison
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Winter Address
>>>
>>> 7808 River Falls Dr.
>>>
>>> Potomac, MD 20854
>>>
>>> 301-365-2093 <(301)%20365-2093>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Summer Address
>>>
>>> 189 Beaucauire Ave
>>>
>>> Camden, ME 04843
>>>
>>> 207 763-3261 <(207)%20763-3261>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Websites
>>>
>>> www.openspaceworld.com
>>>
>>> www.ho-image.com
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> *From:* OSList [mailto:oslist-boun...@lists.openspacetech.org] *On
>>> Behalf Of *Lucas Cioffi via OSList
>>> *Sent:* Tuesday, August 29, 2017 6:29 PM
>>> *To:* World wide Open Space Technology email list
>>> *Subject:* Re: [OSList] Open Space in Charlottesville
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Hello Harrison, thanks so much for the prompt reply.  Below is the draft
>>> script for the event.  I wrote it down since I'm out of practice.  I won't
>>> read it word for word; it's just a guide.  You'll see the rules and the law
>>> are not refe

Re: [OSList] Open Space in Charlottesville

[Michael Herman via OSList]

Adding to birgitt... open space for *more* of the community we love.


On Thu, Aug 31, 2017 at 16:00 Chris Corrigan 
wrote:

> Instead of inviting questions, ask for a show of hands from everyone who
> has enough clarity to proceed. Ask people to hold their hands high. Then
> tell everyone that if you have a question about how things will work, ask
> one of the people with their hands held up.
>
> Chris.
>
> ___
> CHRIS CORRIGAN
> www.chriscorrigan.com
>
>
> On Aug 31, 2017, at 1:50 PM, Birgitt Williams via OSList <
> oslist@lists.openspacetech.org> wrote:
>
> Hi Lucas,
> I echo Michael's comments about 'safety'...it cannot be promised.
>
> I got into the start of your scripted intro and thought..."this is too
> small a space that Lucas is creating...this is such a great opportunity". I
> would not make definitive statements about the tarnished name of
> Charlottesville etc as I think that closes some of the space.. Rather, I
> would really open the space wide for creating the community we love". Who
> knows what inspirations might show up!
>
> I wish you stellar outcomes! And yes, I would do it 'by the book'!
> Birgitt
>
> On Thu, Aug 31, 2017 at 10:17 AM Michael Herman via OSList <
> oslist@lists.openspacetech.org> wrote:
>
>> the thing i like about the original principles and law is that they are
>> essentially descriptive, rather than prescriptive "ground rules."  the law,
>> for instance, doesn't say one must use their two feet, it says "you and
>> only you know when you are learning and contributing as much as you can."
>>  this isn't a ground rule, it's more like a law of nature, defy it at your
>> own risk.  the moving about with two feet is just describing what happens
>> when people notice and act on the reality of the natural law.
>>
>> the other thing i notice, lucas, is that you're attempting to promise
>> safety.  that's a tall order.  made taller by simultaneously saying that
>> ALL ideas are welcome.  the combination of inviting everyone to learn and
>> contribute as much as they can, on the one hand, and be prepared to be
>> surprised, on the other, should be enough.  if you promise "safe" space,
>> then as soon as anyone feels bad the hosts/facilitators are seen as
>> responsible.  what you want is for everyone to be responsible for
>> everyone's safety.  when the event finishes and everyone is still okay,
>> THAT is something the group (not the facilitator) has done for itself,
>> perhaps even the MOST important thing.  the principles and law accomplish
>> that pretty well.
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> --
>>
>> Michael Herman
>> Michael Herman Associates
>> 312-280-7838 <(312)%20280-7838> (mobile)
>>
>> http://MichaelHerman.com
>> http://OpenSpaceWorld.org
>>
>>
>>
>> On Thu, Aug 31, 2017 at 4:30 AM, Harrison Owen via OSList <
>> oslist@lists.openspacetech.org> wrote:
>>
>>> The only suggestion I would make is not to take any questions. May seem
>>> rude, but the fact of the matter is that everything will be clear upon
>>> departure, and the sooner you get to take off the better. One side
>>> note—Personal prejudice, I’m sure—The original “5 Principles” and One Law
>>> quickly do the job, and my preference is always to quickly get out of the
>>> way and let the people do their job. Good Luck!
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Harrison
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Winter Address
>>>
>>> 7808 River Falls Dr.
>>>
>>> Potomac, MD 20854
>>>
>>> 301-365-2093 <(301)%20365-2093>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Summer Address
>>>
>>> 189 Beaucauire Ave
>>>
>>> Camden, ME 04843
>>>
>>> 207 763-3261 <(207)%20763-3261>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Websites
>>>
>>> www.openspaceworld.com
>>>
>>> www.ho-image.com
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> *From:* OSList [mailto:oslist-boun...@lists.openspacetech.org] *On
>>> Behalf Of *Lucas Cioffi via OSList
>>> *Sent:* Tuesday, August 29, 2017 6:29 PM
>>> *To:* World wide Open Space Technology email list
>>> *Subject:* Re: [OSList] Open Space in Charlottesville
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Hello Harrison, thanks so much for the prompt reply.  Below is the draft
>>> script for the event.  I wrote it down since I'm out of practice.  I won't
>>> read it word for word; it's just a guide.  You'll see the rules and the law
>>> are not referred to directly, since I think the crowd will understand it
>>> better if we explain it like this.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Of course I may be very wrong about that.  I'm just doing what seems
>>> best in my judgement.  I'm 100% open to any and all suggestions!
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Lucas
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> 8:30am: Opening
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> [JESSICA]
>>>
>>> Welcome, everyone.  My name is Jessica G.  And my name is Lucas C.  All
>>> of us are gathered here to think together, and we are here to work
>>> together. If this goes well, it could be the start of something big.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Charlottesville’s name has been tarnished.  We have a window of
>>> opportunity for a second act.  That window is closing.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> If there’s one community that can think outside the box and is not
>>> intimidated by obstacl

Re: [OSList] Open Space in Charlottesville

[Michael Herman via OSList]

To your observation, Lucas, many community os and onconf events invite
conversation rather than action. Need to invite action but also need to
invite it at scale and expertise and resource levels that are true for the
group. The tools you're offering might be useful but only if folks have the
expertise, time, maybe money, etc they need. Inviting only those who do
might shrink attendance. That's where some chest and invite less than they
really want. Sometimes groups can go find what heft need as first action
steps. Sometimes it possible or necessary to bring key resources as part of
the invite. Anyway, the main thing is to start and see who comes, what they
have and want and might do. It might take more than one meeting 



On Thu, Aug 31, 2017 at 16:09 Michael Herman 
wrote:

> Adding to birgitt... open space for *more* of the community we love.
>
>
> On Thu, Aug 31, 2017 at 16:00 Chris Corrigan 
> wrote:
>
>> Instead of inviting questions, ask for a show of hands from everyone who
>> has enough clarity to proceed. Ask people to hold their hands high. Then
>> tell everyone that if you have a question about how things will work, ask
>> one of the people with their hands held up.
>>
>> Chris.
>>
>> ___
>> CHRIS CORRIGAN
>> www.chriscorrigan.com
>>
>>
>> On Aug 31, 2017, at 1:50 PM, Birgitt Williams via OSList <
>> oslist@lists.openspacetech.org> wrote:
>>
>> Hi Lucas,
>> I echo Michael's comments about 'safety'...it cannot be promised.
>>
>> I got into the start of your scripted intro and thought..."this is too
>> small a space that Lucas is creating...this is such a great opportunity". I
>> would not make definitive statements about the tarnished name of
>> Charlottesville etc as I think that closes some of the space.. Rather, I
>> would really open the space wide for creating the community we love". Who
>> knows what inspirations might show up!
>>
>> I wish you stellar outcomes! And yes, I would do it 'by the book'!
>> Birgitt
>>
>> On Thu, Aug 31, 2017 at 10:17 AM Michael Herman via OSList <
>> oslist@lists.openspacetech.org> wrote:
>>
>>> the thing i like about the original principles and law is that they are
>>> essentially descriptive, rather than prescriptive "ground rules."  the law,
>>> for instance, doesn't say one must use their two feet, it says "you and
>>> only you know when you are learning and contributing as much as you can."
>>>  this isn't a ground rule, it's more like a law of nature, defy it at your
>>> own risk.  the moving about with two feet is just describing what happens
>>> when people notice and act on the reality of the natural law.
>>>
>>> the other thing i notice, lucas, is that you're attempting to promise
>>> safety.  that's a tall order.  made taller by simultaneously saying that
>>> ALL ideas are welcome.  the combination of inviting everyone to learn and
>>> contribute as much as they can, on the one hand, and be prepared to be
>>> surprised, on the other, should be enough.  if you promise "safe" space,
>>> then as soon as anyone feels bad the hosts/facilitators are seen as
>>> responsible.  what you want is for everyone to be responsible for
>>> everyone's safety.  when the event finishes and everyone is still okay,
>>> THAT is something the group (not the facilitator) has done for itself,
>>> perhaps even the MOST important thing.  the principles and law accomplish
>>> that pretty well.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> --
>>>
>>> Michael Herman
>>> Michael Herman Associates
>>> 312-280-7838 <(312)%20280-7838> (mobile)
>>>
>>> http://MichaelHerman.com
>>> http://OpenSpaceWorld.org
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> On Thu, Aug 31, 2017 at 4:30 AM, Harrison Owen via OSList <
>>> oslist@lists.openspacetech.org> wrote:
>>>
 The only suggestion I would make is not to take any questions. May seem
 rude, but the fact of the matter is that everything will be clear upon
 departure, and the sooner you get to take off the better. One side
 note—Personal prejudice, I’m sure—The original “5 Principles” and One Law
 quickly do the job, and my preference is always to quickly get out of the
 way and let the people do their job. Good Luck!



 Harrison



 Winter Address

 7808 River Falls Dr.

 Potomac, MD 20854

 301-365-2093 <(301)%20365-2093>



 Summer Address

 189 Beaucauire Ave

 Camden, ME 04843

 207 763-3261 <(207)%20763-3261>



 Websites

 www.openspaceworld.com

 www.ho-image.com



 *From:* OSList [mailto:oslist-boun...@lists.openspacetech.org] *On
 Behalf Of *Lucas Cioffi via OSList
 *Sent:* Tuesday, August 29, 2017 6:29 PM
 *To:* World wide Open Space Technology email list
 *Subject:* Re: [OSList] Open Space in Charlottesville



 Hello Harrison, thanks so much for the prompt reply.  Below is the
 draft script for the event.  I wrote it down since I'm out of practice.  I
 won't rea