An "inspiration pledge" in Toastmasters typically refers to two distinct, though sometimes combined, elements that open a club meeting: an Inspiration (or Invocation) and a Pledge (often the Pledge of Allegiance or a similar recognition of the host country). These elements are designed to set a positive and engaging tone for the meeting .
The Inspiration, also known as an Invocation, is a short, usually one to two-minute, speaking role intended to provide an inspirational message, thought, or story at the beginning of the meeting . Its purpose is to "wake up the club and launch the meeting on an interesting and positive note". The subject matter is broad and can include personal anecdotes, summaries of impactful readings, discussions of inspirational figures, reasons for joining Toastmasters, or even a brief meditation. While the content doesn't necessarily have to be overtly "inspiring," it should be upbeat to set a positive tone. This role helps members practice delivering an effective, motivating presentation within a limited timeframe. When delivering an invocation, it's crucial to be sensitive to the diverse backgrounds of club members and visitors, ensuring a non-sectarian approach if it's religious or spiritual in nature.
The Pledge, most commonly the Pledge of Allegiance in the United States, is an optional component that recognizes the host country. Its inclusion in a Toastmasters meeting is decided by a majority vote of active members at a club's business meeting. Toastmasters International emphasizes that participation in the pledge is optional for individual members, and clubs should not pressure members to take part. While some clubs view it as a way to respect local tradition or demonstrate patriotism, others argue it consumes valuable meeting time without educational benefit, can make non-citizens uncomfortable, and may not align with the international nature of Toastmasters. Some clubs may opt for a "Toastmasters Club Pledge" or the "Toastmasters Promise" as an alternative, focusing on the club's mission and member support.
Both the Inspiration/Invocation and the Pledge are typically delivered by a designated club member at the very beginning of the meeting, often after the Sergeant at Arms formally opens the meeting and before the Toastmaster of the Evening takes over. This role, though small, is considered important for maintaining meeting consistency and providing an early opportunity for members, including new ones, to speak and build confidence.
