Avoiding and Naming Harm

 Memos from coding my interview with Megan McGee of Ex Fabula. 

Interesting thoughts from Megan on using accents in stories and how this relates to Ex Fabula’s “brave space.” How do you know when an accent is okay and when it’s offensive? Some examples on the extremes seem obvious, but there is also a gray middle ground. Does this also relate to the idea of the story being true and authentic? If the accent was an authentic part of the experience, is it wrong to include it?

Main goal is to not have harm happen, and when it does, acknowledge it. This relates to what happens when people break the rules. Importantly, some people don’t realize they are saying something harmful. It is important that Ex Fabula views this as a learning experience rather than just enforcement.

The importance of naming harm, and Megan doing it if no one else does it.

Suggestion to use Ultra Shorts to react to a moment in a story. I haven’t seen them used this way, but it is a good idea. There is the option to remain anonymous which could facilitate some honest reactions.

Trying to anticipate: What are people afraid of?

Photo by Korhan Erdol

 

Building community and group size. Maybe need a smaller group online.

Megan theorizes that their slam audiences are mostly middle class white women because they have the fewest barriers and most interest. I’ve been thinking about how women especially may need to tell their stories and have a place to be heard.

Parking as an issue. Yes! Coming from outside the city, I often stress about the parking situation.