Should audience members at a public meeting be allowed to
applaud or boo speakers from the public and/or members of the
elected body after they finish speaking?
THIS WEEK’S WEB POLL:
Should audience members at a public meeting be allowed to applaud or boo speakers from the public and/or members of the elected body after they finish speaking?
Yes, both
4
Applause only
3
Neither
3
â– Neither to avoid turning the meeting into the Jerry Springer like show.
â– Applause only for the sake of whatever social dignity is left among adults in public gatherings.
â– Neither. We are a civilized society and should behave accordingly. However, pending the outcome of the November election, I reserve my inalienable right to torch burning, shoe throwing and occasional use of ill-tempered badgers.
â– Applause only and limited such as when the speakers make overwhelmingly valid or positive comments and when the meeting ends. Boo is disrespectful and disruptive.
â– Neither. It is inappropriate.
â– Oh, yes, it is our duty to applaud what we like and boo what we dislike. It’s our First Amendment right and it just feels good to participate in the moment. If there are rules to disorderly conduct then they better have large signage!
â– Applause only.
â– Yes, both. From the standpoint of freedom of expression or free speech, it is allowable but could sometimes be inappropriate. In the interests of civility and respect, it is almost never appropriate.
■Yes – to both – why not?
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