[Fg-general] Re: My thoughts on today

[Alec Smecher]

Hi everyone,

As a weekly volunteer, I've been fortunate to have both an ongoing role 
with Freegeek for something approaching two years, and one that has been 
somewhat removed from the challenges it's been facing over that time. I 
think we can all agree that everyone involved has been putting an 
incredible amount of energy into Freegeek at considerable personal cost. 
This kind of effort can't be sustained and probably has a lot to do with 
the current tensions.

I'd like to recognize the unbelievable efforts that Adam, Len, Megan, 
Ifny, David, Ryan, and others (please don't take offense if I didn't 
include you) have contributed, some over the course of years.

Like many others, I'm not familiar with the specifics that led up to 
Adam leaving. He was always very hard-working and professional and I was 
sad to hear of his departure. I also fully trust that it was not an 
option for him to remain. I don't think it would be useful to air out 
the full details, and in my humble opinion it's just as bad to tiptoe 
around those details without being able to speak concretely about them.

I suggest that this discussion -- which is useful and needs to be held 
-- needs to have some its parameters clarified. Something like:

1. The purpose of this discussion is to improve Freegeek Vancouver. 
Everyone involved in it believes passionately that Freegeek is a 
necessary institution that deserves to succeed.
2. Freegeek is showing considerable strain as a result of ongoing 
sustained overwork.
3. The social environment at Freegeek needs improvement, at least 
partially as a result of that strain.
4. The decision-making and feedback processes need to be clarified, as 
has been discussed here previously.
5. Some concrete steps need to be identified that can decrease 
Freegeek's operational dependence on a few individuals.
6. Anything that needs to be discussed should be discussed thoroughly 
and openly. IMHO, that takes Adam's departure off the table. However, 
the policies that were involved in that process can and should be included.

I humbly suggest a conscious focus on clarity, concision, and compassion 
in these emails. I've found it a very helpful approach for discussing 
difficult situations via email.

Regards,
Alec