BASIC RESPECT 101
by Fireball, BFMC 39

16 July 2007

There are some things civilians just don't understand about MC's. We are not "Riding Clubs" we are brotherhoods and we follow our own sets of laws and rules first and foremost. We are a subculture with a discipline that commands respect whether it's borne of knowledge or borne of fear.

And now enter wanna-be yuppies that have no clue besides a few "biker" movies of what our culture is about, much less how to act and conduct themselves in our presence, showing attitude and trying to act tough and macho. I'll 'splain a few things, a few rules for you wanna-bees need to follow to preserve your health.

First and most important, have and show genuine respect around a Patchholder. If you show respect, you will get respect, or at least keep your bones and teeth intact. Most of us are tightly wound and you don't know if you are dealing with an easier going member or a prospect with something to prove.

Remember that members of an MC are people too. We have families, jobs, and every day problems and issues to deal with. We also have a brotherhood of like minded men who proscribe to disciplines and rules that you know little or nothing about, or is any of your business, so just chill on the commando wanna-be crap. Just like any other group of individuals you will find both good and bad, and it doesn't matter to us, we will stand behind our brothers, right or wrong.

I'll condense it to 10 rules:

1. Show respect and proper protocol when around MC patch holders. I can't stress that enough! Do not approach quickly or directly. Make your path slow and deliberate; remember you are the unknown in this situation and as such could be perceived as a snitch or some other sudden threat.

2. Don’t be overly loud, fake, macho or bossy, just be yourself. We will see what you are and represent in short order and then decide whether we want to meet/talk to you.

3. Do not interrupt a conversation. If there is a conversation, walk up within eye-shot of the Member and politely wait for recognition, Look, don’t go all wussy or get an attitude if he does not recognize you. He could be talking business or something else important. If a couple of minutes pass and you are still standing there, back up and slowly walk away. Do not spin around facing away from the Member. Turning your back like that is highly disrespectful and you may find you get to meet several members the hard way.

4. When introduced, don't interrupt an error. If the introduction is incorrect, then wait until it is finished and politely reintroduce yourself to the Patchholder correctly.

5. Always remove your sunglasses and gloves, even if the member already has his hand out, remove your sunglasses and right hand glove before shaking his hand! Then remove the remaining glove and hold them in one hand. Glasses resting on top of the head is fine, but do not reach in your vest or back pockets fumbling for a place to stick your gloves.

6. DO NOT TOUCH ANY PART OF THE PATCHHOLDERS COLORS! This includes the vest or jacket. MC colors are hard earned and sometimes fought for over months and years of prospecting and discipline. Never touch them, for any reason, that is serious disrespect. A hug can be done by placing the forearm on the shoulders of the member.

7. If a Member or Prospect asks that you remove your riding vest or some other patches or support item you have on, DO IT! Don't argue or complain. You will only get the one chance to comply.

8. Do not introduce your wife or girlfriend unless asked. A patchholder usually will not acknowledge her during a first meeting. She should remain quiet and respectful during your exchange. If she can't or won't respect that then get her out of there. Remember she is getting your ass kicked, not her own. And if a Patchholders O'l Lady decides to deck your girl, respectfully say your goodbyes and get her the hell out of there, keeping her mouth closed if at all possible.

9. Do not call a Patchholder or a Prospect, Brother or Bro. Our brothers are our fellow Patchholders who have earned that term of respect. We don't even allow club prospects to use the term and you may get one slip and be asked not to use that term again.

10. Never, ever, ever lie to a patchholder. That's lie, fib, BS, etc... I don't care who you are or what your issue is! When asked a question, give a direct answer. Protocol and respect are primary when dealing with an MC and dishonesty is considered one of the most disrespectful. For that matter you shouldn't be lying period, and in this case it is very bad for your health. And I am not talking fish stories either. I refuse to have any kind of a relationship with a liar.

That's just scratching the surface, but there is enough information here to keep you intact. Follow these simple rules and you just might make some good friends and earn some respect at the same time! At the least, there will be much more room for honest mistakes.
One last thing, and this comes up a lot. Make no mistake about what our colors (patch) represent. A serious MC commands respect. Those who know us see the deep level of commitment, self respect and the discipline that a man has to demonstrate and sustain in order to wear MC colors. Normal civilians have no idea what dedication, accomplishment, hard work and yes depending on the club, willingness to do whatever it takes to demonstrate loyalty, brotherhood and basically to prove ones self in "situations." Our colors are the symbol and recognition of that accomplishment and they are respected and closely guarded.

Have a good ride.
Fireball
BFMC 39