Civic activism in the face of prejudice I
Due to ongoing reforms, Ruth has risen to be a community activist, leading a citizens’ initiative to save a vital local service. She aims to maintain a constructive tone, though some in the movement take a more radical stance. At a meeting with the reform unit, a group of supporters joins in. Before the speakers can begin, the affiliated group starts whistling and shouting over them.
What would you do in Ruth's place?
- 1. Troublemaking is unacceptable. I will intervene and demand that the whistlers and out-shouters cease their activities immediately. If needed, I call for the security guards.
- 2. I will intervene and speak up, urging everyone to be polite to each other. I will promise that everyone who wishes will have the floor in due order.
- 3. I will do nothing. This is the problem of the people responsible for the reform to cope with interaction with the radicals as well.
- 4. I will go to the reform unit and apologise about the members of the community and offer to move the meeting to another, smaller room.
- 5. I will apologise to all those gathered together and suggest that the group that has joined could first voice their concerns in a polite manner.