Diversity in a Motorcycle Group

First, let me clarify, this is not about a motorcycle club (MC), one that people fear when they see them on the highway.  This is a non-profit motorcycle group that supports the local community in which it is based.  Because of the small town, this riders group consists of local residents, typically within a thirty-mile radius.  Anyone outside that area tends to join the organization closer to their home.   The rider’s group is all volunteer.  The most common answer given when asked why they wanted to join, “to have other people to ride with.”   For that reason, diversity plays a helpful role in satisfying the needs of the members.  Diversity can refer to physical differences, such as sex or skin color, but also things that can’t be seen, such as differences in personality traits or differences in beliefs (such as religion or politics) (World Campus, 2018 Lesson 1).  The individual differences such as ride style, desired travel distances, and personal goals all provide opportunities for finding like-minded individuals to share common interests.  Friendships encourage enrollment.  The reality though, not everyone who owns a motorcycle wants to ride hundreds of miles at a time.  Some choose to stay local, some choose to only venture out on weekends, and some are never seen not on their bike.  The differences within a group are exactly that: the things that distinguish individuals from others who fall in the same category; it is the range of all the possibilities inside a group (World Campus, 2018 Lesson 1).

With differences comes disagreements.  One way to address those is the specific function of the written by-laws of conduct and operations.  On the surface, when riding down the road to an event and all members are in formation, it may appear to the public that we are all just the same “bikers.”  In truth, Deep-level diversity exists.  Deep-level diversity is those differences in beliefs, values, attitudes, etc., that do affect much more deeply how a person behaves (World Campus, 2018 Lesson 3).  If, as stated, the group is headed to an event, alcohol will likely be present.  The value put on behavior and restraint differs greatly.  As President, the watchful eye on individual behaviors is imperative.  A collaborative effort by the riders is helpful in maintaining a positive public image.

In accordance with the by-laws, the organizational structure is similar to a company.  President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, Sgt-at-Arms, etc..  Each officer position is given specific responsibilities.  In addition to what is written, the officers and members are all empowered with the voice to be heard in the event someone or something is jeopardizing the group.  Whether watching someones “behavior” at a party or riding habits that may compromise the safety of all that are riding together, everyone has a voice.  Leaders who share power help build profound trust and shared responsibility (Moran et al., 2014 pg.192).  The President cannot see everything all the time.  Typically that position rides in the front with all other bikes in tow.  Group success and safety rests on each individual’s shoulders.

Schedules of events are discussed in monthly meetings.  Preparation is key to a harmonious plan of action.  Charity events, runs, and a show of support at other organizations.  Because this is volunteer, not everyone can make each endeavor.  A key factor in execution and commitment is the inclusion of the members.  Listening is critical rather than mandating which only deters participation.  Exclusion, only including one or a few perspectives (World Campus, 2018 Lesson 3) limits participation.   As President, the different approaches I have had to take can be difficult at times.  The fact is though, in my absence, this group has earned my trust and faith that they will pull together to accomplish any goal we have set.

 

References:

Moran, Robert, Abramson, Neil, & Moran, Sarah. (2014). Managing Cultural Differences. Oxford: Routledge.

Pennsylvania State University (2018). Leadership in Global Context-Olead 410. Lesson 1: Introduction to Leadership in a Global Context, Penn State World Campus, The Pennsylvania State University.

Pennsylvania State University (2018). Leadership in Global Context-Olead 410. Lesson 3: Diversity, Penn State World Campus, The Pennsylvania State University.