Use When
A member spreads voter disinformation.
A figure backs election interference.
State-aligned propagandists cheer repression.
Instructions
- 1
Identify the precise anti-democratic conduct — disinformation, intimidation, or electoral interference — and adopt a content-neutral integrity clause defining prohibited behavior, due-process steps, and available remedies.
- 2
Frame the expulsion publicly as a defense of collective integrity rather than political retaliation; this action must have moral consistency and procedural legitimacy.
- 3
Assemble a core team: a three-to-five-person evidence-review panel, a neutral parliamentarian, a dedicated note-taker, and a communications lead.
- 4
Consult legal to verify bylaw soundness, and partners on procedural standards and verified factual resources.
- 5
Compile a verified evidence packet of screenshots, minutes, and citations; formally notify the member and offer a documented opportunity to correct the record before any vote is called.
- 6
Circulate the meeting notice with the full agenda and findings memo in advance to maximize participation and build membership-wide accountability around the action.
- 7
Prepare a press FAQ, designate a single media spokesperson, maintain message consistency, and brief journalists on the rationale and procedural framework before the meeting date.
- 8
Conduct proceedings under strict parliamentary procedure; record everything, cite only verified facts, and maintain decorum throughout deliberation and voting.
- 9
Publish the findings memo with an appeal window and a restorative reinstatement path; host an open public forum to answer questions.
Historic Parallels
- In Czechoslovakia's 1989 Velvet Revolution, Civic Forum publicly distanced itself from Communist-aligned propagandists, using transparent exclusion to establish democratic credibility and accelerate the transition from authoritarian rule.
- In Germany, professional and civic associations formally suspended members who promoted anti-democratic disinformation between 2017 and 2022, resulting in strengthened conduct standards.
- Following the 2020 U.S. election, civic organizations similarly removed members spreading false electoral claims and adopted formal integrity policies, improving institutional accountability and public trust.
In Czechoslovakia's 1989 Velvet Revolution, Civic Forum publicly distanced itself from Communist-aligned propagandists, using transparent exclusion to establish democratic credibility and accelerate the transition from authoritarian rule.Modern Examples
- A civic association livestreams a vote, reads a neutral findings memo, removes the member’s privileges, and posts a reinstatement path.
- A club unveils an “integrity wall” showing criteria, evidence links, and the three remedies required for return.
- A coalition hosts an open forum immediately after the expulsion to answer questions and onboard volunteers to pro-democracy work.
Participants
Individual
No
Quorum of voting members, neutral chair/parliamentarian, 3–5 evidence reviewers, a note-taker, and a communications lead to publish the findings and remedies.
Helpful Materials
- Bylaw amendment template
- Content-neutral integrity clause template
- Evidence log with citations/screenshots
- Press FAQ and spokesperson brief
- Findings memo and appeal form
References
Use of Action Playbook educational materials must adhere with Unruled Masses’ Terms of Service.
Stay Nonviolent. Coordinate Strategically. Take Back Your Power.