Traditionally, the non-members have been permitted to attend business meetings of the organization but have not been permitted to speak or participate other than to observe.

We have a rather important business meeting coming up and some of the members/leaders would like to permit the non-members to be able to voice their opinions at this meeting.

Others are of the opinion that only members should have the right to participate actively in a business meeting.

What is the normal practice in this case? Our organization goes by Robert's Rules of Order. We have never had to deal with this question before and would like some advice. - Rene Groeneveld, Oct. 1, 1999

A: Non-members have no rights in an organization, including the right to speak or even to attend its meetings. Unless the bylaws say otherwise, the organization may, by majority vote, allow outside participation for a particular issue, a meeting, or as a standing rule applied to all meetings. This privilege can be granted to a particular person or to all persons generally.

Similarly, if a majority of the membership doesn't want the "adherents" in attendance, it may vote that an issue, meeting, or all meetings be closed to non-members. (See RONR p. 639.)

"Normal" practice varies widely. What is more important is what is right for your organization.