Public Forum Canceled, Again.

I wonder sometimes why I think that it is a big deal when the public forum is disrespected by the leadership of the APS, and nobody else seems to care.

I googled the importance of public forums, and found out at least, that I am not the only person on the planet who cares about the principle of a public forum. (link)

"A public forum is a commons for communication—a space where speech on matters of importance to the community is expected and protected."

Public forums "... are provided by government: official meetings of local and state bodies where citizens address their elected or appointed public servants, on the record." (emphasis added)

We are guaranteed the right to petition our government by the constitution. The public forum is the only place where that petition can be delivered face to face.

Public Forums are threatened by;

• Excessive official secrecy: A public starved of the facts that are staples of speech.
• Intimidation or retaliation: Too high a price placed on inquiry, reporting or comment.
• Eroding opportunity: Dwindling space or time for expected and protected speech.

School Board President Paula Maes must have been encouraged by the lack of outrage when she canceled the public forum at the last regular meeting of the school board.

Her tone is unchanged;

PUBLIC INPUT WILL NOT BE TAKEN FOR THIS MEETING