Winnie Madikizela Mandela’s UAB Campus Visit Monday March 8, 2010- A Reflection…Cell Phone Etiquette

Articles, Make Your Best Impression Blog, News & Testimonials, Press Room / Media   ·   March 8, 2010

Today, I had the distinct honor and privilege to assist the host team during the reception prior to the public lecture. Local visionaries and leaders worked together to bring this trailblazing heroin to our wonderful city. Ms. Winnie Mandela landed in Birmingham to grace us with her words of wisdom and inspiration. She share some insight about their struggles for democracy and the continual challenges they face now twenty years as a democratic nation. She exhorted a call for all persons to do what they can to be part of the solution of peace.  We all must take a stand.

What a wonderful opportunity to have such a historical figure in our presence.  Often times we take these things for granted. Unless you are involved in the planning and execution of such and undertaking, it is easy to misunderstand the time, energy and resources it takes to host such and endeavor. My hats go off to Catrena Norris Carter, Regional Coordinator of the National Voting Rights Museum and Institute.

As one that promotes respect and decorum in the workplace, it was disheartening to me that during the presentation I heard cells phones going off during Ms. Mandela’s presentation.  I feel certain this was a error, but lesson to all- when you are going to an event such as this, turn your phone on vibrate. Not only is it rude to the presenter, but it is also rude to the others trying to hear.  Most of all, this a poor reflection of you on your lack of attention to detail.

It can happen to any of us, so please just remember to check to be sure your phone is either off or on silent when attending an event. You will save yourself the embarassment and disapproving stares.

We are grateful for Ms. Mandela’s visit to the Magic City. I hope that she will not be offended by the cell phone disruptions. This is not what we want South Africa to think about how we respect their dignitaries.

Today was a great day in Birmingham!