SLO Tango -- discussion

[Beth Sweetwater]

After reading the discussions about semi-privates I
contribute this point of view...

The SLO tango group has a unique opportunity at this
juncture.  The previous discussions seem to revolve
around the same paradigm with the only change being a
or b.  For me, this reflects our present cultural
biases: groups, levels, status etc.  Another approach
might be to look at restructuring the group to a
community model where everyone is welcome at all
levels at all times.  This does not take away from our
"best" but enhances the whole.  By nuturing all who
come to the group, to have them watch certain classes
without paying, to make sure all women have dances at
every event, encourage certain behaviors, it can
create an atmosphere where people want to stay and be
motivated to learn.  We all have our strengths and
weaknesses, but a strong core community has this
diversity.  I think SLO can be innovative and start
something that could reach beyond its borders.  My own
experience is with multi- level teaching, which I
thought at the onset was the universe handing me the
biggest curse it could create for me.  At first, it
was hard work and hard to see how to traverse this
road, but after emerging myself I discovered and
created with my students a true community  where the
youngest were inspired by the oldest who helped the
youngest etc.  I learned as much as the students.  I
think that this group could profit from thinking in
those terms not only because it is inclusive, but the
number of the group is small and fragile with a single
leader, and if anything big should occur, the gourp
could face real challanges of existence.  Community
creates a core with many strong assests and is able to
be flexible and adaptable.
With heart,
Beth


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