I've been having mixed feelings about how I should approach the situation with the below e-mail.

[citizenwind]

On one hand, I want to ask someone on the EC or someone involved with PSI for their opinion on how to proceed and lodge a formal complaint, but on the other hand I'd be a snitch.  And you know how much we hate snitches.

But seriously, it'd feel like I was tattling on the playground.  Oh no!  The big mean woman pushed me down digitally and verbally

Comments

[martyoutloud]

I'd take the high road and approach her first, calmly and clearly requesting an explanation for and/or clarification of her comments. I'd cc her co-slammaster so that all communication is above board. Then, if it becomes necessary to speak to the EC (who most likely won't/can't do much of anything,) and/or to spread the word more widely that this particular venue is run by someone comfortable with such behavior, then you have a far better starting place than one interaction.

[citizenwind]

I already asked for an explanation and of course got no response. Though I'll try again and follow your suggestions.

[nerak_g]

Yeah, I second Marty's advice & would talk to Moody, too.
:-(
Win that slam so I can see you at LEAF!

for the record

[citizenwind]

cc: moody black

Dear Kimberly,

Previously, I had e-mailed you regarding the possibility of booking Katie FS and I this winter.

On August 31st, you sent me a letter informing me that your venue was already booked, adding "Maybe you are available another date when you are in our area visiting your oppressed mother."

With no context to interpret this comment, I can only think it is a reference to a poem of mine where I reference racial bias against my mother while she lived in Greenville, an issue that she still faces today.

The above comment came off as unprofessional, incredibly malicious, and racist. As a professional performer, I was shocked that you, a representative of your community, would offer such an audacious response to a simple solicitation.

If you have an explanation which would better frame your comment, I would be elated to hear it. I eagerly wait for it.

-Alvin Chungyuen Lau
alvin.c.lau@gmail.com
773-339-1197

Re: for the record

[succulentpoet]

This letter is extremely diplomatic. You win!
Also, when you posted that letter, I thought that you were adding the italics yourself. I didn't get the joke. The fact that it's not a joke makes me sick to my stomach.
And I'm pretty sure it violates the code of honour, which applies to slammasters too, yes?

Re: for the record

[k80fs]

my point exactly.

the counterpoint: the code of honor only applies to nps.

Re: for the record

[delrica]

Good response, babe!

[citizenwind]

you should've seen the first draft! a LOT more bitter. it's really hard to not take this on emotionally and head-on like everything else.

[delrica]

believe me...I know what you mean.

[citizenwind]

and thanks.

[martyoutloud]

No problem. I have an unfortunately large quantity of experience dealing with ignorant jackasses, and have found 9.75 times out of 10 that staying totally calm for as long as possible -- and utilizing the full power of the CC -- is not only effective, but REALLY pisses off said jackasses, which is delightful and satisfying. Keep us posted!

[fengi]

Yeah, this is the best process. Forget what I said - Try the high road and if this doesn't work the EC can say, "Hey, that's not right."