Why Al Gore Should or Should Not Be This Year’s SHRM Annual Keynote Speaker

Michael VanDervort, author of “Human Race Horses” blog, has a great post, “Why Al Gore Should Be This Year’s SHRM Annual Keynote Speaker” http://bit.ly/7t4rnx

Margaret Finney, graciously wrote a guest post with an opposite opinion. . http://bit.ly/5FSRW3

I’m simply reacting to our reactions when we disagree with a choice or opinion. Mike pointed out in reply to me that Margaret made excellent alternative suggestions for speakers, which is absolutely true. I just believe in listening with an open mind.

There are lots of great responses on  http://www.thehumanracehorses.com/ Here was my response:

I agree with Mike’s take on the reasons why SHRM should have Al Gore as the keynote speaker.

There are even greater issues at stake here.

Setting aside the issue of global warming, when did it become a bad thing to listen to another opinion? By keeping our minds open, we might actually learn something new.  Our opinion may not change. At least we can walk away with a broader perspective.  When I was growing up my father and grandfather would give me books to read and afterwards we’d have discussions.  They would play devil’s advocate as I struggled to make my case.  Any one of us can put the spin on most anything and we do.

HR Florida received flack from having Edward James Olmos’ as a keynote.  We were told that his message was too strong and not appropriate for an HR group.  If diversity is not appropriate topic for HR folks, the ones who should be spearheading their organizational cultures into one of inclusion, then tell me who?

The real problem rests with the folks that really need to hear the message and learn. Their minds are already made up and their ears are closed. How sad for us as a nation that civility seems to be on its last breath.

We are a country founded on capitalism, so I can’t blame Al Gore for making money either.  His rivals do, too.

On the topic of global warming, whether you believe it exists or not, we have not been good stewards of our planet.  How deep of a carbon footprint do you want to leave your children, grandchildren and future generations?

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