The Negotiator’s Bill of Rights by Brian Buck
This past Fourth of July was unique in many ways — from most of us being forced back into seclusion amid the rise in COVID-19 cases to our debates across this country over complex social and political issues. Needless to say, it wasn’t the same assortment of backyard BBQs, family gatherings, and fireworks displays that so many of us have grown accustomed to. However, as I enjoyed my secluded and subdued Fourth, I took a slight detour and asked myself, If we could declare independence from bad negotiations, what would our Negotiator’s Bill of Rights look like? Enjoy the diversion . . . The first 10 Amendments of the United States Constitution make up the Bill of Rights. Written by James Madison, the Amendments helped to address many states’ issues with the unamended Constitution, which led to its eventual ratification. I am no James Maidson, however. So, I borrowed his words and modified them to suit the needs of this distraction. I now humbly put forth to you, for your consideration, the Negotiator’s Bill of Rights: Amendment I - Right to respectful negotiations Negotiators shall make no rules disrespecting the views and opinions of the other party, or prohibiting the free expression thereof; or the right of the other party to peaceably negotiate, and to petition the
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