wiki.occupyboston.org - User contributions [en]

Logistics

2011-11-05T21:39:16Z

Andyk:

== What We Need ==

For the latest needs of the camp, check out the [https://twitter.com/#!/OBLogistics Occupy Boston Logistics Twitter Feed]

= Announcements =

----

 October 07, 2011

*'''Tent stakes''': Skinny metal ones and wide plastic ones.
*'''Non-disposable dish & cutlery''': No glass. That's a safety hazard waiting to happen, and we're happy with our no-injury record so far.
*'''Tables''': Folding ones are a favorite.
*'''Plywood and/or pallets''': The ground here is muddy, and we make paths between the tents with this stuff. The stuff we have now is a) not quite sufficient and b) in bad condition.
*'''Blankets''': Yes, we still need these. We've received many donations, but we still need more. If you're planning to join us and take up residence, we recommend bringing two blankets for yourself, plus one additional blanket for every friend you'd like to make the instant you show up.
*'''Warm gloves''': All types, all sizes. This isn't sexy but the weather's going to get increasingly cold as we stay here, and we'd like to keep moving things around and generally taking our hands out of our pockets on a regular basis.
*'''Drivers''': We have a lot of people who have supplies in their homes that they can't easily move on the T. We also have businesses willing to make donations if we can show up and take delivery. Most of the occupiers do not have cars - if you're working during the day and want to help at night, this would be a great way. (If you have supplies in your home, or your business is willing to donate, and you need a driver, contact us here or at [http://www.twitter.com/OBLogistics @OBLogistics].)

Additionally, while food donations are still welcome (and we are head-over-heels in love with Food Not Bombs for all the help they've provided so far) we could use some extra bins to put some of this stuff in so as to disappoint the local rat population. Also someone kindly donated more apples than we can possibly eat before they go bad, so please, no more apples for a week or so.

[task: please find an appropriate place for this link: <[http://occupyboston.wikispaces.com/Structures+and+Building > ] [http://occupyboston.wikispaces.com/Structures+and+Building http://occupyboston.wikispaces.com/Structures+and+Building]>]]

=== Contact Us ===

[mailto:occupybostonlogistics@gmail.com occupybostonlogistics@gmail.com]

----

''Based on: [http://occupyboston.wikispaces.com/Logistics Logistics at wikispaces]''

Financial Accountability

2011-11-03T17:34:32Z

Andyk:

This page is the homepage for the Financial Accountability Working Group (FAWG). Please fill this in with pertinent information and resources for newcomers. Use the Discussion tab above to start discussions.

----

Email list: [mailto:ob-finance@lists.mayfirst.org ob-finance@lists.mayfirst.org]
 
Join the list and view message archives at https://lists.mayfirst.org/mailman/listinfo/ob-finance

----

'''Current Financial Accountability Working Group Members'''

Shane Aspinall (Facilitation)

B (Food)

Theresa Earle (Media)

Bruce Ehrlich

Lisa Goldstein (Media) occupylisa AT gmail.com

Linda Jenkins, occupylinda @ gmail.com

Matthew Krawitz (IT), OB-FAWG AT theherbalcurrent.com                      (Credit Union Account Signer)

K. Eric Martin (Logistics), 857-236-2734, occupyeric@gmail.com

Jacob McDermott (Media), occupymmedia@gmail.com

Gregory Murphy (Facilitation) 617-413-6472, gsjmurphy @ gmail.com    (Credit Union Account Signer - temporary)

Ariel Oshinsky (Logistics)

Rene Perez (Logistics), occupyrene@gmail.com

Rita Sebastian (Info)

Stephanie Skier (Logistics)

 '''Current Financial Accountability Working Group Consultants'''

Daniel Paradis, tax lawyer - occupybostongc@gmail.com, 617.470.5049

----

'''OccupyBoston Internal Revenue Service and Banking Structure'''

For Occupy Boston to open a credit union account to track donations to the general fund, and any resulting OB expenses, OB needed an Employer Identification Number, provided by the IRS. Gregory Murphy obtained an EIN in the name of OccupyBoston. Currently his mailing address is the IRS address. As soon as an OccupyBoston P.O. Box is secured, FAWG will notify the IRS of this change of address.

For the same reason and per credit union requirements, Gregory Murphy obtained a Certificate of Business from the City of Boston. That certificate lists Gregory Murphy dba (doing business as) Occupy Boston Financial Accountability Working Group. This is a temporary measure, simply to get an account open. OB's Financial Accountability Working Group is researching different organizational structures, and, at some point, will make a recommendation to the GA, in the form of a proposal.

On 10/25/11, members of FAWG opened an account at Liberty Bay Credit Union, in the name of Occupy Boston Financial Accountability Working Group, with a total deposit of $15,819.44, which included $5 LBCU gave OB for opening the account. FAWG will make a decision, soon, on whether to move the money in the existing WePay accounts into this credit union account, or possibly into a trust, for an interim period of time.

----

 [[General Fund Activity]]

----

'''Below is FAWG Proposal #1, consented to by the General Assembly, on 10/15'''/'''11.''' The Finance Working Group will oversee the accounting of all monetary donations and monetary disbursements. Specific targeted funds, such as the Legal/Bail fund, are already allocated and do not require any further approval by the General Assembly.

For the general Occupy Boston funds, Working Groups and individual requests for cash disbursements in amounts more than $100 per week must be proposed directly to and approved by the General Assembly.  The Finance  Working Group has the authority to approve and disburse up to $100 per week to each Working Group. Each Working Group will determine at least two (2) pointpersons for monetary disbursements and register those names and contact information with the Finance Acountability Working Group, in order to ensure accountability and transparency in monetary disbursements. Working groups will fill out cash disbursement request forms and submit them to the Finance Working Group. Part of that process will be to detail the items requested and to check first with Logistics Working Group to make sure that the requested items are not readily available as in-kind donations. Working Groups must submit receipts for purchased items and any change back to the Finance Working Group. If a Working Group pointperson does not provide receipts or absconds with the funds, that pointperson will not be allowed to receive further cash disbursements. 

Monetary donations made to the Food Working Group stay autonomous with transparency through biweekly reports of money taken in and going out and copies of receipts to the Finance Working Group.

Members of the Finance Working Group will be on site at a specified time each day to accept disbursement forms and to make disbursements.

Minutes of the Finance Working Group will be posted publicly. The Finance Working Group will make financial records publicly available.

----

'''Procedures for Workgroups and Individuals to Obtain Funds'''

Each Working Group (WG) may request up to $100 a week (defined as Monday through Sunday) from the Finance Accountability Work Group (FAWG) for purchases of items not available through in-kind donations without going through the General Assembly.  For amounts over $100, an Individual or a Working Group must make a proposal directly to GA. Working Groups need to first register with FAWG in order to receive funds.  The WG fills out a form identifying two or three point people who are selected by that workgroup to make requests for funds on the workgroups' behalf. To request funds from FAWG, the requesting WG obtains the request for funds form at the Logistics tent.  This form requires details on the items requested, planned place of purchase, and cost of each item.  (This advance research of the items to be purchased helps ensure that the $100 limit is not exceeded.) The WG first submits a request form is to Logistics WG, which will try to provide the items requested from its existing stock. If not immediately available, Logistics WG will endeavor to get the same items or reasonable substitutes donated in the next day or two.   If Logistics WG has signed off on items they cannot get donated and must be purchased, the WG brings the form to a FAWG representative during disbursement hours.  Initially disbursement will take place each day from noon to 3:00, currently at the Logistics tent Receipts and change must be returned to the disbursement representative the next day or that workgroup representative loses their ability to receive disbursements.

Financial Accountability

2011-11-03T17:32:51Z

Andyk:

This page is the homepage for the Financial Accountability Working Group (FAWG). Please fill this in with pertinent information and resources for newcomers. Use the Discussion tab above to start discussions.

----

Email list: ob-finance@lists.mayfirst.org
 
Join the list and view message archives at https://lists.mayfirst.org/mailman/listinfo/ob-finance

----

'''Current Financial Accountability Working Group Members'''

Shane Aspinall (Facilitation)

B (Food)

Theresa Earle (Media)

Bruce Ehrlich

Lisa Goldstein (Media) occupylisa AT gmail.com

Linda Jenkins, occupylinda @ gmail.com

Matthew Krawitz (IT), OB-FAWG AT theherbalcurrent.com                      (Credit Union Account Signer)

K. Eric Martin (Logistics), 857-236-2734, occupyeric@gmail.com

Jacob McDermott (Media), occupymmedia@gmail.com

Gregory Murphy (Facilitation) 617-413-6472, gsjmurphy @ gmail.com    (Credit Union Account Signer - temporary)

Ariel Oshinsky (Logistics)

Rene Perez (Logistics), occupyrene@gmail.com

Rita Sebastian (Info)

Stephanie Skier (Logistics)

 '''Current Financial Accountability Working Group Consultants'''

Daniel Paradis, tax lawyer - occupybostongc@gmail.com, 617.470.5049

----

'''OccupyBoston Internal Revenue Service and Banking Structure'''

For Occupy Boston to open a credit union account to track donations to the general fund, and any resulting OB expenses, OB needed an Employer Identification Number, provided by the IRS. Gregory Murphy obtained an EIN in the name of OccupyBoston. Currently his mailing address is the IRS address. As soon as an OccupyBoston P.O. Box is secured, FAWG will notify the IRS of this change of address.

For the same reason and per credit union requirements, Gregory Murphy obtained a Certificate of Business from the City of Boston. That certificate lists Gregory Murphy dba (doing business as) Occupy Boston Financial Accountability Working Group. This is a temporary measure, simply to get an account open. OB's Financial Accountability Working Group is researching different organizational structures, and, at some point, will make a recommendation to the GA, in the form of a proposal.

On 10/25/11, members of FAWG opened an account at Liberty Bay Credit Union, in the name of Occupy Boston Financial Accountability Working Group, with a total deposit of $15,819.44, which included $5 LBCU gave OB for opening the account. FAWG will make a decision, soon, on whether to move the money in the existing WePay accounts into this credit union account, or possibly into a trust, for an interim period of time.

----

 [[General Fund Activity]]

----

'''Below is FAWG Proposal #1, consented to by the General Assembly, on 10/15'''/'''11.''' The Finance Working Group will oversee the accounting of all monetary donations and monetary disbursements. Specific targeted funds, such as the Legal/Bail fund, are already allocated and do not require any further approval by the General Assembly.

For the general Occupy Boston funds, Working Groups and individual requests for cash disbursements in amounts more than $100 per week must be proposed directly to and approved by the General Assembly.  The Finance  Working Group has the authority to approve and disburse up to $100 per week to each Working Group. Each Working Group will determine at least two (2) pointpersons for monetary disbursements and register those names and contact information with the Finance Acountability Working Group, in order to ensure accountability and transparency in monetary disbursements. Working groups will fill out cash disbursement request forms and submit them to the Finance Working Group. Part of that process will be to detail the items requested and to check first with Logistics Working Group to make sure that the requested items are not readily available as in-kind donations. Working Groups must submit receipts for purchased items and any change back to the Finance Working Group. If a Working Group pointperson does not provide receipts or absconds with the funds, that pointperson will not be allowed to receive further cash disbursements. 

Monetary donations made to the Food Working Group stay autonomous with transparency through biweekly reports of money taken in and going out and copies of receipts to the Finance Working Group.

Members of the Finance Working Group will be on site at a specified time each day to accept disbursement forms and to make disbursements.

Minutes of the Finance Working Group will be posted publicly. The Finance Working Group will make financial records publicly available.

----

'''Procedures for Workgroups and Individuals to Obtain Funds'''

Each Working Group (WG) may request up to $100 a week (defined as Monday through Sunday) from the Finance Accountability Work Group (FAWG) for purchases of items not available through in-kind donations without going through the General Assembly.  For amounts over $100, an Individual or a Working Group must make a proposal directly to GA. Working Groups need to first register with FAWG in order to receive funds.  The WG fills out a form identifying two or three point people who are selected by that workgroup to make requests for funds on the workgroups' behalf. To request funds from FAWG, the requesting WG obtains the request for funds form at the Logistics tent.  This form requires details on the items requested, planned place of purchase, and cost of each item.  (This advance research of the items to be purchased helps ensure that the $100 limit is not exceeded.) The WG first submits a request form is to Logistics WG, which will try to provide the items requested from its existing stock. If not immediately available, Logistics WG will endeavor to get the same items or reasonable substitutes donated in the next day or two.   If Logistics WG has signed off on items they cannot get donated and must be purchased, the WG brings the form to a FAWG representative during disbursement hours.  Initially disbursement will take place each day from noon to 3:00, currently at the Logistics tent Receipts and change must be returned to the disbursement representative the next day or that workgroup representative loses their ability to receive disbursements.

Arts/Media

2011-11-02T19:51:34Z

Andyk:

=== Contact ===

'''''Please direct all inquiries and requests for interviews to [mailto:occupybostonmedia@gmail.com occupybostonmedia@gmail.com]'''''

=== External Media Coverage ===

===== [[Ext. Text|Media Coverage Print]] =====

===== [[Ext. Audio|Media Coverage Radio]] =====

===== [[Ext. Video|Media Coverage Video]] =====

===== [[Ext. Text|Media Coverage Web]] =====

===== [[Ext. Photography|External Photography]] =====

=== Community Generated Coverage ===

===== [[Int. Audio|Community Generated Audio]] =====

===== [[Int. Photography|Community Generated Photos]] =====

===== [[Int. Text|Community Generated Text]] =====

===== [[Int. Video|Community Generated Videos]] =====

===== [[Graphic Design|Community Generated Graphic Design]] =====

=== Occupy Boston Media Sources ===

===== [http://www.occupyboston.org/ Occupy Boston Web Site/Blog] =====

===== [http://occupybostonglobe.com/ The Occupy Boston Globe] =====

===== [http://www.livestream.com/occupyboston Occupy Boston Live Stream] =====

===== 'Like' [https://www.facebook.com/OccupyBoston Occupy Boston's Facebook Page] =====

===== [[Press Releases|Press Releases]] issued by Occupy Boston =====

=== Other Media Resources ===

*[https://docs.google.com/document/d/1L-3w-9o_xIHiSeYfgLLNml6SjpEqpu0TNxxwYx1zqpg/edit?hl=en_US&pli=1 Important Media Links (Google Doc)]
*'Like' [https://www.facebook.com/OccupyTogether Occupy Together's (Global) Facebook]
*[http://occupywallst.org/ OccupyWallSt.org][http://www.adbusters.org/campaigns/occupywallstreet Adbusters.org - #OccupyWallStreet]
*[http://wearethe99percent.tumblr.com/ We Are the 99%] (Tumblr stories of the 99%)
*[http://twitter.com/#%21/WeOccupyAmerica/occupations/members Twitter List] of all Occupy accounts across the nation.*[http://www.youtube.com/occupytv OccupyTV] (Collection of Videos from Occupy Sites around the Nation)*[http://kck.st/nHEb8h The Occupy Wall Street Collaborative Film]*[http://www.livestream.com/globalrevolution Occupy Wall Street Live Stream]*[http://www.youtube.com/user/99percentfilm 99 Percent: Occupy Wall Street Youtube Channel]*[http://www.fightbacknews.org/ Fight Back News]*[http://www.openmediaboston.org Open Media Boston]

=== Do you want to share your story? ===

Why are you Occupying Boston? [https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dEhPMHAyaEM3N0pEZVBZN05BOUdHbVE6MQ Tell us!]

=== Contact Us: ===

[mailto:occupybostonmedia@gmail.com occupybostonmedia@gmail.com] [http://twitter.com/#%21/OccupyBOS_Media Twitter]

Arts/Media

2011-11-02T19:51:08Z

Andyk:

=== Contact ===

'''''Please direct all inquiries and requests for interviews to the [mailto:occupybostonmedia@gmail.com occupybostonmedia@gmail.com]'''''

=== External Media Coverage ===

===== [[Ext. Text|Media Coverage Print]] =====

===== [[Ext. Audio|Media Coverage Radio]] =====

===== [[Ext. Video|Media Coverage Video]] =====

===== [[Ext. Text|Media Coverage Web]] =====

===== [[Ext. Photography|External Photography]] =====

=== Community Generated Coverage ===

===== [[Int. Audio|Community Generated Audio]] =====

===== [[Int. Photography|Community Generated Photos]] =====

===== [[Int. Text|Community Generated Text]] =====

===== [[Int. Video|Community Generated Videos]] =====

===== [[Graphic Design|Community Generated Graphic Design]] =====

=== Occupy Boston Media Sources ===

===== [http://www.occupyboston.org/ Occupy Boston Web Site/Blog] =====

===== [http://occupybostonglobe.com/ The Occupy Boston Globe] =====

===== [http://www.livestream.com/occupyboston Occupy Boston Live Stream] =====

===== 'Like' [https://www.facebook.com/OccupyBoston Occupy Boston's Facebook Page] =====

===== [[Press Releases|Press Releases]] issued by Occupy Boston =====

=== Other Media Resources ===

*[https://docs.google.com/document/d/1L-3w-9o_xIHiSeYfgLLNml6SjpEqpu0TNxxwYx1zqpg/edit?hl=en_US&pli=1 Important Media Links (Google Doc)]
*'Like' [https://www.facebook.com/OccupyTogether Occupy Together's (Global) Facebook]
*[http://occupywallst.org/ OccupyWallSt.org][http://www.adbusters.org/campaigns/occupywallstreet Adbusters.org - #OccupyWallStreet]
*[http://wearethe99percent.tumblr.com/ We Are the 99%] (Tumblr stories of the 99%)
*[http://twitter.com/#%21/WeOccupyAmerica/occupations/members Twitter List] of all Occupy accounts across the nation.*[http://www.youtube.com/occupytv OccupyTV] (Collection of Videos from Occupy Sites around the Nation)*[http://kck.st/nHEb8h The Occupy Wall Street Collaborative Film]*[http://www.livestream.com/globalrevolution Occupy Wall Street Live Stream]*[http://www.youtube.com/user/99percentfilm 99 Percent: Occupy Wall Street Youtube Channel]*[http://www.fightbacknews.org/ Fight Back News]*[http://www.openmediaboston.org Open Media Boston]

=== Do you want to share your story? ===

Why are you Occupying Boston? [https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dEhPMHAyaEM3N0pEZVBZN05BOUdHbVE6MQ Tell us!]

=== Contact Us: ===

[mailto:occupybostonmedia@gmail.com occupybostonmedia@gmail.com] [http://twitter.com/#%21/OccupyBOS_Media Twitter]

Arts/Media

2011-11-02T19:50:12Z

Andyk:

=== External Media Coverage ===

'''''Please direct all inquiries and requests for interviews to the [mailto:occupybostonmedia@gmail.com occupybostonmedia@gmail.com]'''''

===== [[Ext. Text|Media Coverage Print]] =====

===== [[Ext. Audio|Media Coverage Radio]] =====

===== [[Ext. Video|Media Coverage Video]] =====

===== [[Ext. Text|Media Coverage Web]] =====

===== [[Ext. Photography|External Photography]] =====

=== Community Generated Coverage ===

===== [[Int. Audio|Community Generated Audio]] =====

===== [[Int. Photography|Community Generated Photos]] =====

===== [[Int. Text|Community Generated Text]] =====

===== [[Int. Video|Community Generated Videos]] =====

===== [[Graphic Design|Community Generated Graphic Design]] =====

=== Occupy Boston Media Sources ===

===== [http://www.occupyboston.org/ Occupy Boston Web Site/Blog] =====

===== [http://occupybostonglobe.com/ The Occupy Boston Globe] =====

===== [http://www.livestream.com/occupyboston Occupy Boston Live Stream] =====

===== 'Like' [https://www.facebook.com/OccupyBoston Occupy Boston's Facebook Page] =====

===== [[Press Releases|Press Releases]] issued by Occupy Boston =====

=== Other Media Resources ===

*[https://docs.google.com/document/d/1L-3w-9o_xIHiSeYfgLLNml6SjpEqpu0TNxxwYx1zqpg/edit?hl=en_US&pli=1 Important Media Links (Google Doc)]
*'Like' [https://www.facebook.com/OccupyTogether Occupy Together's (Global) Facebook]
*[http://occupywallst.org/ OccupyWallSt.org][http://www.adbusters.org/campaigns/occupywallstreet Adbusters.org - #OccupyWallStreet]
*[http://wearethe99percent.tumblr.com/ We Are the 99%] (Tumblr stories of the 99%)
*[http://twitter.com/#%21/WeOccupyAmerica/occupations/members Twitter List] of all Occupy accounts across the nation.*[http://www.youtube.com/occupytv OccupyTV] (Collection of Videos from Occupy Sites around the Nation)*[http://kck.st/nHEb8h The Occupy Wall Street Collaborative Film]*[http://www.livestream.com/globalrevolution Occupy Wall Street Live Stream]*[http://www.youtube.com/user/99percentfilm 99 Percent: Occupy Wall Street Youtube Channel]*[http://www.fightbacknews.org/ Fight Back News]*[http://www.openmediaboston.org Open Media Boston]

=== Do you want to share your story? ===

Why are you Occupying Boston? [https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dEhPMHAyaEM3N0pEZVBZN05BOUdHbVE6MQ Tell us!]

=== Contact Us: ===

[mailto:occupybostonmedia@gmail.com occupybostonmedia@gmail.com] [http://twitter.com/#%21/OccupyBOS_Media Twitter]

WG/Working Groups

2011-11-02T16:32:49Z

Andyk:

Working Groups are the organs which make up the body of the Occupation. You will find resources, discussions, and courses of action in every field.

''Working Groups are OPEN; Please contribute!''

=== Action and Information Working Groups ===

''Performs external action''

*[[Anti-Oppression|Anti-Oppression]]
*[[Arts and Culture|Arts and Culture]]
*[[Direct Action|Direct Action]]
*[[Media|Media]]
*[[Occupy Everywhere|Occupy Everywhere]]
*[[Outreach|Outreach]]
*[[WG/OBIT]] Occupy Boston IT
*[[External Technology Support]] (to work on this wiki and other sites, not necessarily at Dewey Square)
*[[Ideas]] (formerly known as Statement of Purpose) (this group is where broader, mission statement type things are discussed.
*[[Strategies, Proposals, Positions|Strategies, Proposals, Positions]] (Please leave the name of SPP as it is until we have a final decision on the role of this Working Group.) This is where specific mechanics and reforms are discussed.
*[[InterOccupation Communications/Connections]]
*[[Nonviolence and Civil Disobedience|Nonviolence and Civil Disobedience]]
*[[Volunteer Coordination|Volunteer Coordination]]
*[[Street Theater]]

=== Infrastructure and Onsite Support Working Groups ===

''Performs internal action''

*[[Conflict Resolution|Community Wellness]]
*[[Facilitators|Facilitators]]
*[[Faith and Spirituality|Faith and Spirituality]]
*[[Food|Food]]
*[[Finance Working Group|Financial Accountability]]
*[[Info Tent]]
*[[Legal|Legal]]
*[[Logistics|Logistics / Tactical]]
*[[Medical|Medical]]
*[[Safety|Safety]]
*[[Signs|Signs]]
*[[Tech|Tech]]
*[[Transparency|Transparency]]
*[[Winterization|Winterization]]

=== Friends of Occupy Boston ===

''Provides safe space and/or facilitates special events''

*[[Library|A-Z Library]]
*[[FSU|Free School University]]
*[[Students Occupy|Students Occupy]]
*[[Occupy Boston Globe|Occupy Boston Globe]]
*Also see groups listed in [[Solidarity|Solidarity]].

Arts/Media

2011-11-02T16:26:24Z

Andyk:

===External Media Coverage===
'''''Please direct all inquiries and requests for interviews to the [mailto:occupybostonmedia@gmail.com Occupy Boston Media Group]'''''

===== [[Ext. Text|Media Coverage Print]]=====
===== [[Ext. Audio|Media Coverage Radio]]=====
===== [[Ext. Video|Media Coverage Video]]=====
===== [[Ext. Text|Media Coverage Web]]=====
===== [[Ext. Photography|External Photography]]=====

===Community Generated Coverage===
=====[[Int. Audio|Community Generated Audio]]=====
=====[[Int. Photography|Community Generated Photos]]=====
=====[[Int. Text|Community Generated Text]]=====
=====[[Int. Video|Community Generated Videos]]=====
=====[[Graphic Design|Community Generated Graphic Design]]=====

===Occupy Boston Media Sources ===
=====[http://www.occupyboston.org/ Occupy Boston Web Site/Blog]=====
=====[http://occupybostonglobe.com/ The Occupy Boston Globe]=====
=====[http://www.livestream.com/occupyboston Occupy Boston Live Stream]=====
====='Like' [https://www.facebook.com/OccupyBoston Occupy Boston's Facebook Page]=====
=====[[Press Releases|Press Releases]] issued by Occupy Boston=====

===Other Media Resources ===
*[https://docs.google.com/document/d/1L-3w-9o_xIHiSeYfgLLNml6SjpEqpu0TNxxwYx1zqpg/edit?hl=en_US&pli=1 Important Media Links (Google Doc)]
*'Like' [https://www.facebook.com/OccupyTogether Occupy Together's (Global) Facebook]
*[http://occupywallst.org/ OccupyWallSt.org][http://www.adbusters.org/campaigns/occupywallstreet Adbusters.org - #OccupyWallStreet]
*[http://wearethe99percent.tumblr.com/ We Are the 99%] (Tumblr stories of the 99%)
*[http://twitter.com/#%21/WeOccupyAmerica/occupations/members Twitter List] of all Occupy accounts across the nation.*[http://www.youtube.com/occupytv OccupyTV] (Collection of Videos from Occupy Sites around the Nation)*[http://kck.st/nHEb8h The Occupy Wall Street Collaborative Film]*[http://www.livestream.com/globalrevolution Occupy Wall Street Live Stream]*[http://www.youtube.com/user/99percentfilm 99 Percent: Occupy Wall Street Youtube Channel]*[http://www.fightbacknews.org/ Fight Back News]*[http://www.openmediaboston.org Open Media Boston]

===Do you want to share your story?===
Why are you Occupying Boston? 
[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dEhPMHAyaEM3N0pEZVBZN05BOUdHbVE6MQ Tell us!]

===Contact Us:===
[mailto:occupybostonmedia@gmail.com occupybostonmedia@gmail.com] 
[http://twitter.com/#%21/OccupyBOS_Media Twitter]

Arts/Media

2011-11-02T16:24:18Z

Andyk:

===External Media Coverage===
'''''Please direct all inquiries and requests for interviews to the [mailto:occupybostonmedia@gmail.com Occupy Boston Media Group]'''''

===== [[Ext. Text|Media Coverage Print]]=====
===== [[Ext. Audio|Media Coverage Radio]]=====
===== [[Ext. Video|Media Coverage Video]]=====
===== [[Ext. Text|Media Coverage Web]]=====
===== [[Ext. Photography|External Photography]]=====

===Community Generated Coverage===
=====[[Int. Audio|Community Generated Audio]]=====
=====[[Int. Photography|Community Generated Photos]]=====
=====[[Int. Text|Community Generated Text]]=====
=====[[Int. Video|Community Generated Videos]]=====
=====[[Graphic Design|Community Generated Graphic Design]]=====

===Occupy Boston Media Sources ===
=====[http://www.occupyboston.org/]=====
=====[http://occupybostonglobe.com/ The Occupy Boston Globe]=====
=====[http://www.livestream.com/occupyboston Occupy Boston Live Stream]=====
====='Like' [https://www.facebook.com/OccupyBoston Occupy Boston's Facebook Page]=====
=====[[Press Releases|Press Releases]] issued by Occupy Boston=====

===Other Media Resources ===
*[https://docs.google.com/document/d/1L-3w-9o_xIHiSeYfgLLNml6SjpEqpu0TNxxwYx1zqpg/edit?hl=en_US&pli=1 Important Media Links (Google Doc)]
*'Like' [https://www.facebook.com/OccupyTogether Occupy Together's (Global) Facebook]
*[http://occupywallst.org/ OccupyWallSt.org][http://www.adbusters.org/campaigns/occupywallstreet Adbusters.org - #OccupyWallStreet]
*[http://wearethe99percent.tumblr.com/ We Are the 99%] (Tumblr stories of the 99%)
*[http://twitter.com/#%21/WeOccupyAmerica/occupations/members Twitter List] of all Occupy accounts across the nation.*[http://www.youtube.com/occupytv OccupyTV] (Collection of Videos from Occupy Sites around the Nation)*[http://kck.st/nHEb8h The Occupy Wall Street Collaborative Film]*[http://www.livestream.com/globalrevolution Occupy Wall Street Live Stream]*[http://www.youtube.com/user/99percentfilm 99 Percent: Occupy Wall Street Youtube Channel]*[http://www.fightbacknews.org/ Fight Back News]*[http://www.openmediaboston.org Open Media Boston]

===Do you want to share your story?===
Why are you Occupying Boston? 
[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dEhPMHAyaEM3N0pEZVBZN05BOUdHbVE6MQ Tell us!]

===Contact Us:===
[mailto:occupybostonmedia@gmail.com occupybostonmedia@gmail.com] 
[http://twitter.com/#%21/OccupyBOS_Media Twitter]

Arts/Media

2011-11-02T16:10:34Z

Andyk:

Arts/Media

2011-11-02T16:09:10Z

Andyk:

===External Media Coverage===
'''Please direct all inquiries and requests for interviews to the [mailto:occupybostonmedia@gmail.com Occupy Boston Media Group]'''

===== [[Ext. Text|Media Coverage Print]]=====
=====[[Ext. Audio|Media Coverage Radio]]=====
===== [[Ext. Video|Media Coverage TV]]=====
===== [[Ext. Text|Media Coverage Web]]=====

===Community Generated Coverage===
=====[[Int. Audio|Community Generated Audio]]=====
=====[[Int. Photography|Community Generated Photos]]=====
=====[[Int. Text|Community Generated Text]]=====
=====[[Int. Video|Community Generated Videos]]=====
=====[[Graphic Design|Community Generated Graphic Design]]=====

===Other Media Links===
*[https://docs.google.com/document/d/1L-3w-9o_xIHiSeYfgLLNml6SjpEqpu0TNxxwYx1zqpg/edit?hl=en_US&pli=1 Important Media Links (Google Doc)]
*'Like' [https://www.facebook.com/OccupyBoston Occupy Boston's Facebook Page]
*'Like' [https://www.facebook.com/OccupyTogether Occupy Together's (Global) Facebook]
*[http://occupywallst.org/ OccupyWallSt.org][http://www.adbusters.org/campaigns/occupywallstreet Adbusters.org - #OccupyWallStreet]

===Do you want to share your story?===
Why are you Occupying Boston? 
[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dEhPMHAyaEM3N0pEZVBZN05BOUdHbVE6MQ Tell us!]

===Contact Us:===
[mailto:occupybostonmedia@gmail.com occupybostonmedia@gmail.com] 
[http://twitter.com/#%21/OccupyBOS_Media Twitter]
-------
''Based on: [http://occupyboston.wikispaces.com/Media Media at wikispaces]''

Arts/Media

2011-11-02T16:08:18Z

Andyk:

===External Media Coverage===
===== Please direct all inquiries and requests for interviews to the [mailto:occupybostonmedia@gmail.com Occupy Boston Media Group] =====
===== [[Ext. Text|Media Coverage Print]]=====
=====[[Ext. Audio|Media Coverage Radio]]=====
===== [[Ext. Video|Media Coverage TV]]=====
===== [[Ext. Text|Media Coverage Web]]=====

===Community Generated Coverage===
=====[[Int. Audio|Community Generated Audio]]=====
=====[[Int. Photography|Community Generated Photos]]=====
=====[[Int. Text|Community Generated Text]]=====
=====[[Int. Video|Community Generated Videos]]=====
=====[[Graphic Design|Community Generated Graphic Design]]=====

===Other Media Links===
*[https://docs.google.com/document/d/1L-3w-9o_xIHiSeYfgLLNml6SjpEqpu0TNxxwYx1zqpg/edit?hl=en_US&pli=1 Important Media Links (Google Doc)]
*'Like' [https://www.facebook.com/OccupyBoston Occupy Boston's Facebook Page]
*'Like' [https://www.facebook.com/OccupyTogether Occupy Together's (Global) Facebook]
*[http://occupywallst.org/ OccupyWallSt.org][http://www.adbusters.org/campaigns/occupywallstreet Adbusters.org - #OccupyWallStreet]

===Do you want to share your story?===
Why are you Occupying Boston? 
[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dEhPMHAyaEM3N0pEZVBZN05BOUdHbVE6MQ Tell us!]

===Contact Us:===
[mailto:occupybostonmedia@gmail.com occupybostonmedia@gmail.com] 
[http://twitter.com/#%21/OccupyBOS_Media Twitter]
-------
''Based on: [http://occupyboston.wikispaces.com/Media Media at wikispaces]''

Talk:Press

2011-11-02T15:56:15Z

Andyk:

==Redundancy between Press and Media pages==
andyk: I'm going to empty this page out and move everything to the media page. We don't need two pages covering roughly the same topics, and media is the more descriptive term for all we do.

==Stop livestream loading==
:[[user:pcovery]] Oct 13, 2011 4:57 pm
How do I stop the livestream from firing up automatically every time I come to this page? It's slow and noisy and it's not what I want to see unless I choose to click on it.
Thanks
====re: Stop livestream loading====
::[[user:OneKarma]] Oct 17, 2011 12:13 am
i have not had that issue. is it possibly a browser setting? i am using chrome.

==Livestream chat==
:[[user:BenjaminFlex]] Oct 8, 2011 2:49 pm
Quick note to the media folks: sometime last night (10/7) the Livestream chat tab disappeared--now the only option is to "chat" via Twitter, which I don't find very useful. Was this intentional? Can the Livestream chat window be brought back?

Thanks for all your work! I love keeping up with GAs from home.
====not sure====
::[[user:OneKarma]] Oct 8, 2011 5:17 pm
It was probably I who deleted the chat by accident, but after reviewing today I think it has been reset. Check the 'Chat' page under 'navigation' on the left. Is this the chat to which you refer?

If not, then it was not I who deleted it, and I am unsure of what you mean, and I don't know how to go about finding it.

Apologies and good luck!

GA/General Assembly

2011-10-24T16:57:23Z

Andyk:

At 7:00 PM on Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday, Occupy Boston gathers for either discussion groups or a General Assembly (GA), its core decision-making body. Additional GAs may be scheduled in the morning, if needed. Minutes from previous GAs can be read at: [[GA Minutes|GA Minutes]].

GA is open to all who want to participate in its defined process, described below. Whether you’re camping with us or just stopping by, your voice is welcome! Everyone’s voice is equal, but we cannot all speak at once so we use a procedure to organize our contributions. To offer proposals remotely to GA, submit them here: [[GA Process Proposals|GA Process Proposals]].

== General Assembly (GA) Process ==

There are no governing authorities in the General Assembly, but a trained Facilitator directs an established process. Facilitators guide the GA process without imposing their views on the group. Facilitator training is offered regularly for anyone interested in volunteering in this role. Check the calendar or listen for announcements to become a trained facilitator. Trained Floor Monitors may also help participants find the right time in the process to raise their point. More information about the GA process is available through the [http://wiki.occupyboston.org/Facilitators Facilitators' page] and a document at [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1yuWv7VZ3nS650mOdTF5kKteLrmmp8z3FiddWt6JJQVo/edit?hl=en_US Google Doc]

A typical order of GA business might be:

#Facilitator reviews consensus process, techniques and the order of the meeting.
#*Someone is identified to keep the 'stack' list of people waiting to address the GA.  To speak to the group, add your name to that list.
#*A timekeeper, floor aides and other assistants are identified.
#Working Groups and Individuals make announcements.
#Working Groups and Individuals present proposals for GA consideration.
#The GA goes through a Consensus Process (see next section) for each proposal before moving on to the next one.

== Consensus Process ==

A defined Consensus Process is used by the assembled group to share thoughts and work toward a consensus. The Facilitator directs this process and may modify it, as agreed by the group. Any member of the GA may speak up in any section, but we make an effort to not repeat things that have already been said. Each question or statement only needs to be made once for the whole group. 

=== Discussion Process ===

The first part of the Consensus Process involves discussing and amending the proposal in a sequence of steps followed by the entire group.  That is, in Step 2 (below) all Clarifying Questions should be voiced but no Points of Information are yet heard.  Once everyone has asked their Clarifying Questions, the whole group moves on to Points of Information.  The proposers do not answer questions until the final discussion step when they address everything the group has said.

At any time, a person may interrupt with a Point of Process if the process is not being followed or a different process applies. (Raise both hands with index fingers pointing at each other and touching.) For instance, sometimes GA approval will be requested for something that the GA has previously agreed to. Someone can interrupt with a Point of Process to explain that there is no need to continue with GA approval in this case. If there is disagreement about this Point of Process, the Facilitator or possibly the entire GA will make a decision about how to proceed. 

Discussion Steps followed by the entire GA together:

#A proposal is stated or read. Ideally, a copy of the text is distributed at or before the meeting so people can consider it closely, especially if it is a complicated or important proposal.
#Clarifying Questions are raised by anyone in the group.  (Raise hand and curve fingers to form a "C."  The Facilitator will call on each person to state the question.)
#Points of Information are raised to add information that has not yet been covered.  (Raise hand and point index finger straight up like an "I.")
#Strong Concerns or Objections are voiced.
#Friendly Amendments are proposed. (Raise hand with two fingers forming a "V.")
#The proposers consider what has been said and, for each of the questions, concerns and amendments, whether to:
#*withdraw the proposal,
#*adopt any suggested amendments, or
#*keep the proposal as is and respond to the concerns.

If any changes have been made, the amended proposal is stated and discussion steps 2 - 6 are repeated.  If no changes are made to the proposal in discussion step 6, then it is ready for the decision process.

=== Decision Process ===

#If someone believes that the proposal poses a danger to the group's purpose or cohesion that is serious enough that the person would consider leaving the group, the person raises a "Block." The hand signal to indicate a block is to cross arms at the wrist and hold them up in front of you so they can be seen.  Any other people with a different block state theirs.
#Each block is assessed by the GA:
#*A vote of 75% must agree that the block is a sincere and legitimate statement, whether or not they agree with the block. If 75% agree that the block is a fair statement, a vote is taken to see how many people agree with the block.
#*A vote of 10% must agree to support the block to make it effective. A blocked proposal is tabled and may be reconsidered at a later time.
#A show of support is requested using hand signals to show support, uncertainty or disapproval. (See Temperature Check, below, for a description of the hand signals.) If counting is required, raised hands may be used, or people may be asked to stand on one side or another to determine a count. 75% approval is a common threshold for consensus.
<ul style="MARGIN-LEFT: 40px">
<li>If Consensus is reached, the proposal is adopted.</li>
<li>If Consensus is not reached, but the proposal is not blocked, there may be a move to Indirect Consensus.</li>
<li>If timely consensus cannot be reached, the Facilitator may ask the proposer to:
*submit a revised proposal at a later meeting or
*submit the proposal to a Working Group before returning it to GA.</li>

=== Indirect Consensus ===

Indirect Consensus involves the following optional steps:

#Debate: Three Debaters '''For''' and Three Debaters '''Against''' will each speak for 30-120 seconds.
#The proposal is restated, and the GA is asked for a Temperature Check (see Useful Techniques, below.)
#If Consensus is not reached, a Facilitator asks for Strong Objections to be stated.
#The GA breaks into '''Small Group Discussion''' for 5-15 minutes.
#The GA returns to Step 2 of the Decision Process.

 

----

= Useful Techniques =

=== People's Mic ===

The People's Mic serves as amplification when there is no bullhorn or microphone. It is typically begun by someone yelling "Mic check!" Everyone who hears this is expected to reply loudly in unison: "Mic check!" The speaker then dictates a few words at a time, pausing for the crowd to recite each phrase. For large crowds, there may be a second echo of each phrase by those farther out in the group. This is a way to amplify one voice by using many voices together. On top of the fun factor, it has the added benefit of giving people time to make sure they hear and understand what's said.

=== Temperature Check ===

To informally assess support for a proposal or idea, the Facilitator may request a "Temperature Check." All GA participants then show agreement by wiggling their fingers in the air ("twinkling") or disagreement by wiggling their fingers pointed down ("squid fingers.") Those who are undecided may wiggle their fingers horizontally, parallel to the ground.

=== Hand Signals ===

To help communication in a large group, some hand signals are often used, described below.

Temperature Check and voting signals:

*Approve or vote yes: raise hand(s) and wiggle fingers in the air.
*Disapprove or vote no: raise arms but point fingers downward and wiggle them.
*Undecided or neutral: hold hands parallel to the ground and wiggle fingers.

Signals to get permission from the Facilitator to say something: 

*Clarifying Question: raise hand and curve fingers to form a "C."
*Point of Information: raise hand and point index finger straight up like an "I."
*Point of Process: raise both hands with index fingers pointing at each other and touching.
*Amendment: raise hand with two fingers forming a "V."
*Block: cross arms at the wrist and hold them up in front of you so they can be seen.

GA/General Assembly

2011-10-24T16:56:48Z

Andyk:

At 7:00 PM on Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday, Occupy Boston gathers for either discussion groups or a General Assembly (GA), its core decision-making body. A second GA may be scheduled in the morning, if needed. Minutes from previous GAs can be read at: [[GA Minutes|GA Minutes]].

GA is open to all who want to participate in its defined process, described below. Whether you’re camping with us or just stopping by, your voice is welcome! Everyone’s voice is equal, but we cannot all speak at once so we use a procedure to organize our contributions. To offer proposals remotely to GA, submit them here: [[GA Process Proposals|GA Process Proposals]].

== General Assembly (GA) Process ==

There are no governing authorities in the General Assembly, but a trained Facilitator directs an established process. Facilitators guide the GA process without imposing their views on the group. Facilitator training is offered regularly for anyone interested in volunteering in this role. Check the calendar or listen for announcements to become a trained facilitator. Trained Floor Monitors may also help participants find the right time in the process to raise their point. More information about the GA process is available through the [http://wiki.occupyboston.org/Facilitators Facilitators' page] and a document at [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1yuWv7VZ3nS650mOdTF5kKteLrmmp8z3FiddWt6JJQVo/edit?hl=en_US Google Doc]

A typical order of GA business might be:

#Facilitator reviews consensus process, techniques and the order of the meeting.
#*Someone is identified to keep the 'stack' list of people waiting to address the GA.  To speak to the group, add your name to that list.
#*A timekeeper, floor aides and other assistants are identified.
#Working Groups and Individuals make announcements.
#Working Groups and Individuals present proposals for GA consideration.
#The GA goes through a Consensus Process (see next section) for each proposal before moving on to the next one.

== Consensus Process ==

A defined Consensus Process is used by the assembled group to share thoughts and work toward a consensus. The Facilitator directs this process and may modify it, as agreed by the group. Any member of the GA may speak up in any section, but we make an effort to not repeat things that have already been said. Each question or statement only needs to be made once for the whole group. 

=== Discussion Process ===

The first part of the Consensus Process involves discussing and amending the proposal in a sequence of steps followed by the entire group.  That is, in Step 2 (below) all Clarifying Questions should be voiced but no Points of Information are yet heard.  Once everyone has asked their Clarifying Questions, the whole group moves on to Points of Information.  The proposers do not answer questions until the final discussion step when they address everything the group has said.

At any time, a person may interrupt with a Point of Process if the process is not being followed or a different process applies. (Raise both hands with index fingers pointing at each other and touching.) For instance, sometimes GA approval will be requested for something that the GA has previously agreed to. Someone can interrupt with a Point of Process to explain that there is no need to continue with GA approval in this case. If there is disagreement about this Point of Process, the Facilitator or possibly the entire GA will make a decision about how to proceed. 

Discussion Steps followed by the entire GA together:

#A proposal is stated or read. Ideally, a copy of the text is distributed at or before the meeting so people can consider it closely, especially if it is a complicated or important proposal.
#Clarifying Questions are raised by anyone in the group.  (Raise hand and curve fingers to form a "C."  The Facilitator will call on each person to state the question.)
#Points of Information are raised to add information that has not yet been covered.  (Raise hand and point index finger straight up like an "I.")
#Strong Concerns or Objections are voiced.
#Friendly Amendments are proposed. (Raise hand with two fingers forming a "V.")
#The proposers consider what has been said and, for each of the questions, concerns and amendments, whether to:
#*withdraw the proposal,
#*adopt any suggested amendments, or
#*keep the proposal as is and respond to the concerns.

If any changes have been made, the amended proposal is stated and discussion steps 2 - 6 are repeated.  If no changes are made to the proposal in discussion step 6, then it is ready for the decision process.

=== Decision Process ===

#If someone believes that the proposal poses a danger to the group's purpose or cohesion that is serious enough that the person would consider leaving the group, the person raises a "Block." The hand signal to indicate a block is to cross arms at the wrist and hold them up in front of you so they can be seen.  Any other people with a different block state theirs.
#Each block is assessed by the GA:
#*A vote of 75% must agree that the block is a sincere and legitimate statement, whether or not they agree with the block. If 75% agree that the block is a fair statement, a vote is taken to see how many people agree with the block.
#*A vote of 10% must agree to support the block to make it effective. A blocked proposal is tabled and may be reconsidered at a later time.
#A show of support is requested using hand signals to show support, uncertainty or disapproval. (See Temperature Check, below, for a description of the hand signals.) If counting is required, raised hands may be used, or people may be asked to stand on one side or another to determine a count. 75% approval is a common threshold for consensus.
<ul style="MARGIN-LEFT: 40px">
<li>If Consensus is reached, the proposal is adopted.</li>
<li>If Consensus is not reached, but the proposal is not blocked, there may be a move to Indirect Consensus.</li>
<li>If timely consensus cannot be reached, the Facilitator may ask the proposer to:
*submit a revised proposal at a later meeting or
*submit the proposal to a Working Group before returning it to GA.</li>

=== Indirect Consensus ===

Indirect Consensus involves the following optional steps:

#Debate: Three Debaters '''For''' and Three Debaters '''Against''' will each speak for 30-120 seconds.
#The proposal is restated, and the GA is asked for a Temperature Check (see Useful Techniques, below.)
#If Consensus is not reached, a Facilitator asks for Strong Objections to be stated.
#The GA breaks into '''Small Group Discussion''' for 5-15 minutes.
#The GA returns to Step 2 of the Decision Process.

 

----

= Useful Techniques =

=== People's Mic ===

The People's Mic serves as amplification when there is no bullhorn or microphone. It is typically begun by someone yelling "Mic check!" Everyone who hears this is expected to reply loudly in unison: "Mic check!" The speaker then dictates a few words at a time, pausing for the crowd to recite each phrase. For large crowds, there may be a second echo of each phrase by those farther out in the group. This is a way to amplify one voice by using many voices together. On top of the fun factor, it has the added benefit of giving people time to make sure they hear and understand what's said.

=== Temperature Check ===

To informally assess support for a proposal or idea, the Facilitator may request a "Temperature Check." All GA participants then show agreement by wiggling their fingers in the air ("twinkling") or disagreement by wiggling their fingers pointed down ("squid fingers.") Those who are undecided may wiggle their fingers horizontally, parallel to the ground.

=== Hand Signals ===

To help communication in a large group, some hand signals are often used, described below.

Temperature Check and voting signals:

*Approve or vote yes: raise hand(s) and wiggle fingers in the air.
*Disapprove or vote no: raise arms but point fingers downward and wiggle them.
*Undecided or neutral: hold hands parallel to the ground and wiggle fingers.

Signals to get permission from the Facilitator to say something: 

*Clarifying Question: raise hand and curve fingers to form a "C."
*Point of Information: raise hand and point index finger straight up like an "I."
*Point of Process: raise both hands with index fingers pointing at each other and touching.
*Amendment: raise hand with two fingers forming a "V."
*Block: cross arms at the wrist and hold them up in front of you so they can be seen.

GA/General Assembly

2011-10-24T16:56:29Z

Andyk:

At 7:00pm on Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday, Occupy Boston gathers for either discussion groups or a General Assembly (GA), its core decision-making body. A second GA may be scheduled in the morning, if needed. Minutes from previous GAs can be read at: [[GA Minutes|GA Minutes]].

GA is open to all who want to participate in its defined process, described below. Whether you’re camping with us or just stopping by, your voice is welcome! Everyone’s voice is equal, but we cannot all speak at once so we use a procedure to organize our contributions. To offer proposals remotely to GA, submit them here: [[GA Process Proposals|GA Process Proposals]].

== General Assembly (GA) Process ==

There are no governing authorities in the General Assembly, but a trained Facilitator directs an established process. Facilitators guide the GA process without imposing their views on the group. Facilitator training is offered regularly for anyone interested in volunteering in this role. Check the calendar or listen for announcements to become a trained facilitator. Trained Floor Monitors may also help participants find the right time in the process to raise their point. More information about the GA process is available through the [http://wiki.occupyboston.org/Facilitators Facilitators' page] and a document at [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1yuWv7VZ3nS650mOdTF5kKteLrmmp8z3FiddWt6JJQVo/edit?hl=en_US Google Doc]

A typical order of GA business might be:

#Facilitator reviews consensus process, techniques and the order of the meeting.
#*Someone is identified to keep the 'stack' list of people waiting to address the GA.  To speak to the group, add your name to that list.
#*A timekeeper, floor aides and other assistants are identified.
#Working Groups and Individuals make announcements.
#Working Groups and Individuals present proposals for GA consideration.
#The GA goes through a Consensus Process (see next section) for each proposal before moving on to the next one.

== Consensus Process ==

A defined Consensus Process is used by the assembled group to share thoughts and work toward a consensus. The Facilitator directs this process and may modify it, as agreed by the group. Any member of the GA may speak up in any section, but we make an effort to not repeat things that have already been said. Each question or statement only needs to be made once for the whole group. 

=== Discussion Process ===

The first part of the Consensus Process involves discussing and amending the proposal in a sequence of steps followed by the entire group.  That is, in Step 2 (below) all Clarifying Questions should be voiced but no Points of Information are yet heard.  Once everyone has asked their Clarifying Questions, the whole group moves on to Points of Information.  The proposers do not answer questions until the final discussion step when they address everything the group has said.

At any time, a person may interrupt with a Point of Process if the process is not being followed or a different process applies. (Raise both hands with index fingers pointing at each other and touching.) For instance, sometimes GA approval will be requested for something that the GA has previously agreed to. Someone can interrupt with a Point of Process to explain that there is no need to continue with GA approval in this case. If there is disagreement about this Point of Process, the Facilitator or possibly the entire GA will make a decision about how to proceed. 

Discussion Steps followed by the entire GA together:

#A proposal is stated or read. Ideally, a copy of the text is distributed at or before the meeting so people can consider it closely, especially if it is a complicated or important proposal.
#Clarifying Questions are raised by anyone in the group.  (Raise hand and curve fingers to form a "C."  The Facilitator will call on each person to state the question.)
#Points of Information are raised to add information that has not yet been covered.  (Raise hand and point index finger straight up like an "I.")
#Strong Concerns or Objections are voiced.
#Friendly Amendments are proposed. (Raise hand with two fingers forming a "V.")
#The proposers consider what has been said and, for each of the questions, concerns and amendments, whether to:
#*withdraw the proposal,
#*adopt any suggested amendments, or
#*keep the proposal as is and respond to the concerns.

If any changes have been made, the amended proposal is stated and discussion steps 2 - 6 are repeated.  If no changes are made to the proposal in discussion step 6, then it is ready for the decision process.

=== Decision Process ===

#If someone believes that the proposal poses a danger to the group's purpose or cohesion that is serious enough that the person would consider leaving the group, the person raises a "Block." The hand signal to indicate a block is to cross arms at the wrist and hold them up in front of you so they can be seen.  Any other people with a different block state theirs.
#Each block is assessed by the GA:
#*A vote of 75% must agree that the block is a sincere and legitimate statement, whether or not they agree with the block. If 75% agree that the block is a fair statement, a vote is taken to see how many people agree with the block.
#*A vote of 10% must agree to support the block to make it effective. A blocked proposal is tabled and may be reconsidered at a later time.
#A show of support is requested using hand signals to show support, uncertainty or disapproval. (See Temperature Check, below, for a description of the hand signals.) If counting is required, raised hands may be used, or people may be asked to stand on one side or another to determine a count. 75% approval is a common threshold for consensus.
<ul style="MARGIN-LEFT: 40px">
<li>If Consensus is reached, the proposal is adopted.</li>
<li>If Consensus is not reached, but the proposal is not blocked, there may be a move to Indirect Consensus.</li>
<li>If timely consensus cannot be reached, the Facilitator may ask the proposer to:
*submit a revised proposal at a later meeting or
*submit the proposal to a Working Group before returning it to GA.</li>

=== Indirect Consensus ===

Indirect Consensus involves the following optional steps:

#Debate: Three Debaters '''For''' and Three Debaters '''Against''' will each speak for 30-120 seconds.
#The proposal is restated, and the GA is asked for a Temperature Check (see Useful Techniques, below.)
#If Consensus is not reached, a Facilitator asks for Strong Objections to be stated.
#The GA breaks into '''Small Group Discussion''' for 5-15 minutes.
#The GA returns to Step 2 of the Decision Process.

 

----

= Useful Techniques =

=== People's Mic ===

The People's Mic serves as amplification when there is no bullhorn or microphone. It is typically begun by someone yelling "Mic check!" Everyone who hears this is expected to reply loudly in unison: "Mic check!" The speaker then dictates a few words at a time, pausing for the crowd to recite each phrase. For large crowds, there may be a second echo of each phrase by those farther out in the group. This is a way to amplify one voice by using many voices together. On top of the fun factor, it has the added benefit of giving people time to make sure they hear and understand what's said.

=== Temperature Check ===

To informally assess support for a proposal or idea, the Facilitator may request a "Temperature Check." All GA participants then show agreement by wiggling their fingers in the air ("twinkling") or disagreement by wiggling their fingers pointed down ("squid fingers.") Those who are undecided may wiggle their fingers horizontally, parallel to the ground.

=== Hand Signals ===

To help communication in a large group, some hand signals are often used, described below.

Temperature Check and voting signals:

*Approve or vote yes: raise hand(s) and wiggle fingers in the air.
*Disapprove or vote no: raise arms but point fingers downward and wiggle them.
*Undecided or neutral: hold hands parallel to the ground and wiggle fingers.

Signals to get permission from the Facilitator to say something: 

*Clarifying Question: raise hand and curve fingers to form a "C."
*Point of Information: raise hand and point index finger straight up like an "I."
*Point of Process: raise both hands with index fingers pointing at each other and touching.
*Amendment: raise hand with two fingers forming a "V."
*Block: cross arms at the wrist and hold them up in front of you so they can be seen.