Politics in the Dojang

[mattiej]

I didn't see this topic in the forum yet, but I apologize in advance if it's already been addressed...

I have a conceptual and practical question, both on the topic of politics and martial arts training.

Conceptual: What do folks think about the relationship of martial arts traning and politics (not politics between school members but US/State government politics). The organization I trained with up to 1st Dan actively and publicly supports congress persons whose politics I cannot support. I'm considering withdrawing my membership formally (haven't been training in years, so it wouldn't be a major change...would just make a point).

Practical: Does anyone know of a Tang Soo Do organization that is politics-free (i.e., the federation does not support any political officers or candidates)?

Thanks

-Matt

[Carol]

That is a very interesting question.

Personally I don't think it is a wise idea.

However, a martial arts organization, like any other organization, has the right to support a partisan view or a political candidate should they choose to. I don't think MA orgs should be stripped of those rights.
I also think an individual/school has the right to not be part of an organization.

Business ethics dictate that an org be up front with how they are spending their members' time and money. I have a big problem with an organization that is stealth about that sort of thing. OTOH, I have no issue with a local group near me that has a political agenda and is quite up-front about what the agenda is and how they engage in their activist activities.

[Brandon Fisher]

Unless they are forcing you to take sides I wouldn't pull out. But to answer your question I am sure there are plenty of tang soo do organizations that are not involved government politics.

[searcher]

You might want to contact Master Dennis McHenry. He has banded together with some other Korean stylists to form a pretty good organization. They are the net. Just look up Master Mac's.

[ajs1976]

If a statement was being made that the members of the organization support a certain candidate, but decision was not made by the members, but the leaders of the organization, I would have to leave.

Personally, I don't try to discuss Politics or Religion at work or in the dojang.