We are most effective as a team when we compliment each other without embarrassment and disagree without fear. ‐ Unknown Delegate Report by Xerlan Geiser-Deery AMTA House of Delegates approves two position statements The AMTA House of Delegates debated proposals for association position statements that express the sense of the membership on matters pertaining to massage therapy. This year, the delegates approved two position statements, which are now official positions of the association. Two proposed position statements were not approved, as delegates felt their language and/or the research support cited were not at the level the delegates would like to see for the association to take such positions. Details on the approved position statements will soon be available on the AMTA website and will become part of the association’s efforts to promote the value of massage therapy, supported by research. The approved statements are: - It is the position of the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) that massage can aid in pain relief. - It is the position of the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) that massage therapy can improve the quality of life for those in hospice and palliative care. One proposed recommendation was not approved, as delegates were so clear on the issue they only had the introduction and one debate against the measure before it was moved to a vote. One proposed recommendation was approved: The HOD operations committee recommend to the National Board of Directors to include in their 2010 budget a compensation to hire and train full-time field representatives to travel to and promote AMTA to schools and students for increased membership and lasting relationships, with territories left up to National to decide along with job descriptions to promote professional excellence. The HOD went incredibly smooth this year. We appreciate the leadership of Moderator Dan Barrow (NM) and HOD Chair Maureen Hoock (MO). There was vibrant debate, issues were discussed and presented in a thorough and clear manner with high decorum. The HOD was completed in record time this year. I thank everyone for an amazing experience the last two years representing Oklahoma in the House of Delegates at the National Convention. It has been an honor for me. Next year, your delegate is Christopher Deery. He is very thrilled to represent Oklahoma on the floor of the HOD. He is also willing to take it to the next level in Oklahoma to actually write and submit a recommendation or position statement. There is a March 15 deadline so the work will begin quite soon. If you are interested in participating in that process please contact Christopher by phone 918-859-7216 or email Chris.Deery@gmail.com Page 5
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