“ROBERT’S RULES”

By David W., SDVFP Member

Gen. Henry Martyn Robert (May 2, 1837 – May 11, 1923) was an American soldier, engineer, and author. In 1876, Robert published his first of parliamentary procedure, “Robert’s Rules of Order”, which remains the most common parliamentary authority in the United States. As an Army Corps of Engineers officer in Massachusetts, he encountered problems conducting hearings, and other business. After one contentious, 14-hour meeting, he decided that there had to be a better way to get business conducted.  He researched style guides of English Parliament, and U.S. Congress. Conflict and clarity issues in these resources motivated him to write a clearer, more concise guide.

During the years since original publication, this manual has become the standard throughout America.  It has been edited, updated and has had many versions published.  The Parliamentarians in our legislative houses, the Toastmasters, the clubs and organizations throughout the country have come to use “Robert’s Rules” to provide the framework to

“give every voice the ability to contribute”.

In our organization, we honor our diversity. In honoring diversity, we must give every voice the method to use to ensure their right to speak. By utilizing this system for meeting communications, we can foster increased confidence and ability to contribute for our collective good.  By educating all membership in the basics of using this system, we are empowering them, and ensuring democratic processes are followed.

Editor Note:  David has extensive experience in parliamentary procedures, and has offered to assist us in implementing the practices in simple lessons format.