LGBT-FAN members currently communicate through two main forums: The email list, and a monthly group phone call (Conference Call). The calls follow an agenda, which is sent out in advance, and offer us a chance to feedback and hear comments on our working group and individual projects.
Time: Calls usually last 1-1.5 hours. If you have to join the call late, or leave early for any reason, that is absolutely fine. It’s a good idea to let people know when you enter and exit.
They take place on the fourth Thursday of every month, always at the same time (depending where you are in the country):
- 9am Pacific (eg. California)
- 10am Mountain (eg. Colorado)
- 11am Central (eg. Chicago, New Orleans)
- 12 noon Eastern (eg. DC; Mass; New York)
How to join: People enter the call by dialing a phone number and, when asked by the automated (electronic) voice, typing in the access code, followed by the # sign. The number and access code are emailed out to the list a few days before every call.
Cost: The phone call will be charged at a standard rate call to an East Coast number, which means that it will be covered by any free minutes included in your phone package, if you have them. We are looking for ways to cover the cost of calls for those who do not have free minutes to spare so that everyone can join the conversation.
Where to call from: It is advisable to call from a private and quiet place whenever possible. Background noise can make it difficult to hear each other. If you are in a noisy place when calling, please use the ‘mute’ button on your phone when you are not talking.
Speaking on the call: Your first call might be a bit difficult, as it is not easy to know when to ‘jump in’ and speak without talking over someone else. Calls become easier with experience - so please don’t give up! We are all trying to make sure that calls are as accessible as possible, but sometimes slip into bad habits. So, if someone says something too quickly, quietly, unclearly, or using words and acronyms you don’t know, please say so - and do speak up if you have been waiting a while to say something.
Looking forward to talking with you on future calls!
