Greetings,
As many of you have heard we will be voting on whether or not TMEA will dissociate with NAfME.
The purpose of this post is to encourage each and every one of you to make your choice.
I would like to clear up some information:
IF TMEA disassociates with NAfME, YOU can STILL be a member of NAfME. You can still have a National voice. You can still receive all the benefits NAfME has stated you will lose. Ex. If you are a member, you may still run for a NAfME office.
This policy is parallel with the Tennessee Band Masters Association or any other (state or national) association. We do not require you to be a part of them, however, you can choose to be a member and have your voice heard.
Essentially NAfME could have the same amount of membership (or more if we get parents and former educators to join).
I am not posting to persuade anyone to vote either way. However, I think there have been some fear-mongering tactics and false information to persuade people a certain way.
I have reached out to NAfME and they have not responded.
At the end of the day, the vote is about personal choice. National membership, in any organization, should be an individual choice.
If anyone would like to discuss it, do not hesitate to email, text, or call. I will not post on social media or engage in discussions on social media.
Enjoy the rest of your summer break.
Benjamin