MPI-PEC Over Passover?
MPI’s decision to hold its 2008 Professional Education Congress–Europe over the Passover holiday has caused a great deal of consternation and discussion in the meeting planning industry. Following is a recent post on the MeCo listserve from industry veteran Harvey Paul Davidson on the subject, along with a photo showing participants taking part in a Seder the first time MPI held a major conference over the Jewish holiday. MPI, for its part, said it is taking an “apologetic” approach to explaining the scheduling conflict, and will offer attendees an opportunity to take part in a local Seder in London during Passover, with transportation to and from provided.
—ed.
I am responding to all those who have commented on the MPI-Passover issue, and also to others who have expressed an interest or opinion in this situation.
First, please allow me to set the record straight. This is the third time MPI has scheduled a major event that has conflicted with Passover. The first time was in the mid- to-late ‘70s at an MPI annual meeting in Dallas.
Several attendees, not all members of the Jewish faith, then decided to sit together at the evening banquet and turn it into a Seder. Although there were rolls on the table and matzo was not available, we were able to get a kosher bottle of wine. Proof of this activity is in the attached photograph. Some of the participants can be seen wearing their MPI name badges.
Since the first time this happened, about a quarter of a century ago, the people responsible for the second error in judgment may be forgiven for their respective lapses in memory, as they were most likely not involved at the first meeting and were unaware that it happened, or possibly were not even born then or know what a meeting professional does. However, as it did happen a second time recently, there should be no excuse why it happened a third time.
I realize that we are an international association and a majority of us live and conduct business in a secular society in the United States. That said, it is difficult, though not impossible or within reason, to be aware and respect aspects of everyone’s beliefs. There are times, however, and I submit that Passover is one of these times, along with other major holidays, religious or otherwise, that we need to respect the recognized and diversified needs of our MPI members and our respective organizations. After all, as many members have said, we are the leaders in our profession and this is the policy the majority of us follow, teach and implement in our own organizations.
Once again, we can accept the apologies of our new [MPI] leadership team and volunteers who may not have been aware of the past two faux pas. However, while I am not advocating the adage of three strikes and you’re out for any individuals, after three major mistakes it’s now time to go beyond apologies.
Unfortunately, since we cannot undo what has been done and we do not have the benefit of our judicial system to impose a fine or other penalty, as a sign of good faith (pun not intended), I submit that MPI, as a reminder to “never again,” make a charitable donation as a form of community service to a worthwhile organization or organizations that respect and honor religious and other forms of diversity.
In fairness, nominations can be made and voted on by the membership who can then select one or more groups to be a recipient, and I further submit that [MPI’s] Board of Directors vote on the amount of the donation or donations to be made.
Harvey Paul Davidson CHME, CMP Emeritus, CM
Chairman
Ad Hoc Committee
Westfield, N.J.
www.adhoccommittee.org