The General Assembly Guide
The General Assembly is a gathering of people committed to making decisions based upon a collective agreement or “consensus.”
There is no single leader or governing body of the General Assembly – everyone’s voice is equal. Anyone is free to propose an idea or express an opinion as part of the General Assembly.
Each proposal follows the same basic format – an individual shares what is being proposed, why it is being proposed, and, if there is enough agreement, how it can be carried out.
The Assembly will express its opinion for each proposal through a series of hand gestures (see gestures below). If there is positive consensus for a proposal – meaning no outright opposition – then it is accepted and direct action begins.
If there is not consensus, the responsible group or individual is asked to revise the proposal and submit again at the following General Assembly until a majority consensus is achieved.
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Guide to Group Dynamics in People’s Assemblies
http://takethesquare.net/2011/07/31/quick-guide-on-group-dynamics-in-peoples-assemblies/
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Hand Gestures Guide
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Description: Hold your hands up, palm open, and fan your fingers back and forth.Meaning: You agree with the proposal or like what you are hearing. |
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Description: Hold your hand downward and fan your fingers back and forth.Meaning: You disagree with the proposal or dislike what you are hearing |
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Description: Hold your hand flat and fan your fingers up and down.Meaning: You’re taking a neutral stance on the proposal. |
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Description: Curl your hand and fingers into a letter-C shape.Meaning: You either have or need clarifying information. |
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Description: Raise your index finger up.Meaning: You have information pertinent to the discussion (not for opinions). |
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Description: Make a triangular shape with your hand by joining your index fingers and thumbs.Meaning: Telling the group the process by which discussions are held is not being followed. |
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Description: Cross your arms in front of your chest to form an X.Meaning: You have very strong moral or ethical reservations about the proposal and will consider leaving the group if it passes. |
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